Feeding change on campus

We know how tough it is for many of you with the rising cost of living, especially when it comes to buying quality food and drink. That’s why - amongst the many cost of living initiatives the University has put in place to support students - the Food Fellows team has been busy cooking up some new ways to help fuel your days and nights, without breaking the bank.

Eat well for less

Community Store

Head to University Centre on campus for Food Fellows’ new ‘Community Store’ – a cashless outlet for staff and students.Open every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday (10:00 – 14:00), the store is brimming with loose, fresh fruit and veg, discounted store cupboard essentials, and pay-what-you-can items so you can save on your shopping and join the fight against plastic while you’re at it. Stock changes almost daily, so expect the unexpected, and go in and grab yourself a bargain. The team is looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help run the store – could you be one of them? Scan the QR code in-store or email bopsupport@contacts.bham.ac.uk to register your interest.

Micro markets

We know many of you have been wanting more facilities to make your own food and drink on campus. So you can do just that, micro markets will be coming to Colleges and Schools, including Physics, Chemical Engineering and Biosciences, this spring. These new, self-service vending machines will sell a range of affordable snacks and confectionary – including crisps, protein bars, and cold drinks – and feature an in-built microwave and hot water dispenser that you can use round the clock. Watch this space!

Meal deals

Thanks to our new and improved meal deal, you can grab a sandwich, snack, and drink for just £4 (selected products only) at many Food Fellows outlets. These include Metro, Atrium Café and Campus Express; just look out for the £4 meal deal sign! For an extra 70p, you can upgrade your sandwich to a panini, or wrap. Now that’s a deal you can’t refuse…

More vegan, veggie, and halal options

You told us you wanted to see more inclusive food and drink options on campus, which is why Food Fellows is constantly expanding its vegan, veggie and halal offers. As part of this, the team is working in partnership with the Guild of Students to make dairy-free the norm at Campus Express (located near the Murray Learning Centre) this March. For one month, all barista-made hot drinks will be with oat milk, unless you request something different.

The team also recently introduced Super Tiffin to Campus Infusion (downstairs at University Centre). You can now enjoy authentic Indian street food – we’re talking curries, rice, and naan – for as little as £5.95. Meat, veggie, and vegan options are all available.  You’ll also find pop-up street food vans offering an even wider range of delicious food options, so you’ll find something on campus to excite every palate.

Food for thought

If you’re on Instagram, share your thoughts or stay in the know about new initiatives by following @uobfoodfellows.

For more information on all the ways we are supporting the student community with the increase cost of living, visit our Cost of Living support page on the student intranet.