Healthy and Affordable Food Choices For All at All Food Outlets

Walailak University, through its Center of Property Management, oversees the quality and pricing of food to ensure that students, staff, and visitors have access to healthy and affordable choices for all food outlets. Recognizing the impact of healthy and affordable food choices on enhancing the well-being of the campus community, the university has launched various programs to promote better nutrition and wellness among food operators. Furthermore, the center conducts regular inspections to uphold strict hygiene standards at all campus food outlets.

Figures : The Center of Property Management organizing an annual meeting in 2023 to discuss the prices and quality of food with food operators on campus.

Affordable Food Choices

In the contracts for food operators in all food outlets wishing to conduct business on campus, they are required to offer food at prices that are fair and do not exploit students or staff. The prices must remain affordable, ensuring a balanced benefit for both the campus community and the food operators. As a result, food prices within Walailak University are significantly lower compared to restaurants and food stalls outside the campus, offering savings of approximately 20% to 30% for students and staff. Additionally, some operators provide discounts to further increase affordability and accessibility. To ensure transparency and avoid misunderstandings, all food operators are required to display clear price tags. This policy fosters a fair and equitable environment, allowing students and staff to access nutritious meals without financial burden.

Safe and Healthy Food Choices

Walailak University has implemented comprehensive food sanitation policies to ensure that all campus food outlets meet high hygiene and safety standards. These policies, which include regular assessments of food distribution quality, are enforced through weekly inspections conducted by a committee from the Center of Property Management in collaboration with the School of Public Health. This committee was formed under the Walailak University Order on the Committee for Food Safety and Sanitation 2015. The inspections and policies ensure that all food provided on campus is safe and nutritious.

Additionally, all food operators are required to participate in food safety orientation programs conducted by the Center of Property Management. The committee’s responsibilities also include the following:

1. Offering an 8-hour training program for food operators, allowing them to obtain a food service sanitation certificate.

2. Evaluating various aspects of food services, such as safety and sanitation, pricing, equipment, proper work attire, food quality, and cafeteria facilities, to protect students and staff from food contamination and service-related incidents.

3. Providing food operators with food sanitation and safety handbooks applicable to all food types.

4. Recruiting food operators who provide students and staff with essential nutrition, including fluids, macronutrients, micronutrients, and adequate calories.

In 2023, there were no reported cases of food contamination at any food outlets on the Walailak University campus, a testament to the success of the university’s rigorous food safety measures. All meals provided were appropriately portioned and nutritionally balanced, meeting the dietary needs of both students and staff. The consistent quality and safety of food have not only contributed to a healthier campus community but also reinforced trust in the university’s food services.

Food Safety to University Program

The Center of Property Management, in collaboration with the School of Public Health, organized a workshop titled “Food Safety at the University” at Walailak University Hospital. The workshop aimed to educate all food operators at Walailak University on essential topics such as food sanitation, safe food handling practices, and maintaining high standards in food preparation. Participants gained valuable knowledge on effective cleaning and disinfecting techniques, proper food storage, and methods to prevent foodborne illnesses. The event saw the participation of over 90 food operators.

Figures : The food operators participating in the workshop.

Figures : The Center of Property Management and the School of Public Health implementing screening of the quality of food at WU’s food outlets across the campus.

Walailak University’s measures to provide affordable and healthy food choices for all in all food outlets at Walailak University have brought significant benefits to students and staff, particularly in terms of health and well-being. Access to nutritious meals on campus has positively impacted the physical health of the university community. Additionally, the cost savings have been substantial. With food prices on campus being 20% to 30% lower than those at off-campus restaurants and food stalls, both students and staff are able to reduce their daily expenses. For students in particular, this financial relief is crucial, as many are working within tight budgets. The affordability of campus meals has also played a key role in reducing food insecurity, ensuring that everyone on campus has access to nutritious food without worrying about high costs.

Healthy and Affordable Food Choices For All at All Food Outlets

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