College campuses are not really known for being the healthiest of places. From grabbing quick pizza to skipping meals, college students are often assumed to be less than worried about health and nutrition – not to mention the “freshman 15” stereotype. But, UNCW students seem to be more concerned than many would imagine. In the recent fall campus dining survey, students asked for more healthful options and nutritional information in on-campus dining locations, according to the UNCW campus dining Web site.

And UNCW is listening. As of March 1, UNCW dining facilities will no longer use trans fat for fried foods. As stated on the campus dining Web site, “We only use trans fat-free cooking oils.” Trans fats, especially those created during the hydrogenation process of some foods, are linked to a higher risk of coronary heart disease and other heath problems and have no nutritional benefits, according to the American Heart Association. In 2003, the FDA issued a regulation that requires manufactures to list trans fat in nutritional information on products. Many restaurants and food manufacturers have reacted to the increased awareness of the trans fats by removing them from their foods. In addition, cities such as New York and Chicago are taking steps to limit the use of trans fats in restaurants.

Other changes due to the dining survey have also been made. Nutritional Information Kiosks, which are computers students can use to access nutritional information about food at specific locations on campus, are now located in dining areas on campus. Students can also access nutritional information online at the campus dining Web site, http://www.UNCW.CampusDish.com. Also available on the Web site are health tips, recipes and links to other helpful sites. Campus dining is also making more options available to students in all dining locations.

The spring campus dining survey is now available online, so be sure to let UNCW know what still needs to be changed.