Smiling at Sustainable Supper

13 October 2022Jensa NG, Mack ‘23; Photo by Chichi O, Allard '23

A new school year comes with new ideas, initiatives, and this year, a new committee. Led by Sarah O, Hope ‘23, Brentwood’s finest foodies – and nutrition enthusiasts – hope to represent the student body’s voice regarding food, with the goal of optimizing student satisfaction and minimizing Brentwood food waste – and the negative impact that our food waste has on the environment.

Sarah started her pursuit with a school-wide survey asking students and staff for their honest feedback on which meals, cookie break snacks, and prep snacks we couldn’t live without, as well as which ones we wouldn’t mind seeing a little less frequently.

“The food committee is dedicated to keeping the Brentwood community happy with healthy and sustainable food” added member Denzy J, Mack ‘23. After her summer working with the Cowichan Green Community, Denzy is a necessary and impactful part of the team. “My eyes were opened to the urgent and concerning reality of food insecurity and food waste in the Cowichan Valley” Denzo informed me about how much of an opportunity there is to make positive change here at Brentwood.

I then dove right to the center of the committee, Sarah O. She says that “The Brentwood Food Committee is a group of students who want to help Crooks Hall become more sustainable and enjoyable for the students. Our goals are to help change Crooks in a positive way while being sustainable. We want the student body to have an impact on the choices in the kitchen.” Whether it’s new meal ideas, replacing meals, or adding new ingredients, the Food Committee wants to hear feedback from the students: “We are researching food waste data, coming up with new meals, and helping reduce our environmental impact through the food we eat!”

The team is working alongside Chef Morgan Milward and the Food Services team to fine-tune everyone’s Brentwood culinary experience – as well as cover our wonderful kitchen staff in compliments.

Jensa NG, Mack ‘23

Where Students Choose To Be