'De Nieuwe Mensa' is up and running

Various stakeholders such as the ASVA, Antikantine, Plantbased Universities, Green Office and the Central Student Council (CSR) and FS joined forces. The result? A unique collaboration under the name De Nieuwe Mensa.

Pepijn Rijks became involved as an advisor because - with a background in the hospitality industry - he has a lot of experience and knowledge about food start-ups and hospitality concepts. He helped the students structure the ideas that were out there and make them concrete. 'There really is a lot more to it than you might initially think. Step by step, we brought the idea to life and made a division of labor. The students were insanely motivated. It was great to see how much passion they had for their ideals and valuable to help them put these ideals into practice.'

Opening pilot location in REC H

On Feb. 3, De Nieuwe Mensa Foundation opened a counter in the food court of REC H. This pilot - which runs until the end of June - , explores whether vegan and healthy meals can actually be made more affordable. As a non-profit foundation, De Nieuwe Mensa offers a fresh perspective on the challenges in the food court.

De Nieuwe Mensa serves a hot one-pan meal daily at a nonprofit price. By doing so, the foundation wants to provide students with nutritious and affordable meals, without making concessions on quality and sustainability. Pepijn Rijks: “People will soon come for the price, but they will come back for the quality. It's very important to be aware of that. So the students also worked on kitchen skills and presentation.'

FS's Eten en Drinken (Food & Beverages) Department sees the pilot as an important step in its broader research on food policy, known as Food Governance 2.0. This research focuses on themes such as inclusivity, sustainability and affordability within the food supply on campus.

From criticism to constructive cooperation

This pilot demonstrates how constructive cooperation between critical parties and Facility Services can lead to innovative solutions. Where criticism of the canteen used to dominate, these parties are now working together toward a more sustainable future. 

Why this pilot is important

By focusing on healthy and sustainable food, social connections and affordability, this pilot contributes to an inclusive and attractive campus. Stop by REC H and get a taste of the future of sustainable food at UvA! Together, we are making campus greener, healthier and more resilient.