The Sussex Uni Food team
Sustainability is at the heart of the University of Sussex’s vision for the future. A key part of bringing that vision to life can be found in an everyday but impactful space: the food we eat on campus.
Sussex Uni Food, the University’s catering partner, has once again achieved the highest possible rating: three stars in the Sustainable Restaurant Association’s ‘Food Made Good’ standard.
This marks an impressive fourth consecutive top three-star rating for Eat Central since 2019, and is now extended across all Sussex Uni Food outlets, demonstrating consistent progress and a sustained commitment to sustainability.
Driving sustainability at scale
As a large-scale catering operation, Sussex Uni Food operates at a level where even small changes can have a significant impact. Sustainability is embedded across procurement, menus, operations and community partnerships.
Sussex now offers one of the most vegan-friendly university catering environments in the UK, including the fully vegetarian Veg Bowl and plant-based Sussex Saver meal from £2.50.
Menu innovation is also helping reduce environmental impact. The introduction of locally sourced venison and Chalk Stream trout as alternatives to higher-impact meats is helping reduce the carbon impact of menus while supporting more sustainable supply chains.
Reducing waste, creating impact
Behind the scenes, significant progress is being made. Over the past two years, Sussex Uni Food has achieved a 50% reduction in food waste, reflecting both operational improvements and a commitment to responsible resource use.
The team also uses behavioural insights to encourage healthier, more sustainable eating habits, helping make the sustainable option the easy choice.
Creating social value
Sustainability at Sussex also means social impact. Through community partnerships, including work with Ambitious About Autism, Sussex Uni Food is creating employment opportunities and supporting a more inclusive society.
Delivering on Sussex 2035
By working with partners who share its values, the University is ensuring sustainability is not just a goal, but a lived experience across campus.
Through Sussex Uni Food, real, measurable progress is being delivered, from reducing waste and carbon impact to improving access to sustainable food and creating social value.
For students, staff and visitors, it’s a reminder that sustainability isn’t just something we talk about - it’s something we actively create.