There has been some confusion over a recent vote by Lancaster University Students’ Union (LUSU) to endorse a transition to plant-based catering following media coverage this week. Find out what happened.

What happened?

A vote took place during a Lancaster University Students’ Union Assembly this week relating to a campaign by student group, Plant Based Universities.

At the Union Assembly, 18 out of the 19 members present at the meeting voted in favour to endorse for the University to transition to 100% plant-based food by 2027. Find out more about the Union Assembly and its process on the LUSU website.

The result of this vote has been reported by local and national media, with the story being picked up by outlets including BBC North West, GB News, and the Lancaster Guardian.

Why the confusion?

Some of the media coverage made it appear that the University has confirmed that it will transition to a plant-based catering model.

However, at this stage, this vote means the Students Union is committed only to lobbying the University.

It does not mean there will be any immediate ban on meat and dairy products on campus as that is not within LUSU powers to decide. It also does not affect the private commercial food outlets on campus.

Plans for the University to implement a move to plant-based catering have not been agreed. For the media to use headlines such as “University campus food to go vegan-only” has therefore led to confusion among students, staff, and members of the public.

The University’s Press Office is requesting that media outlets correct any misleading reporting. Each outlet is determining which corrections they will make.

What happens next?

LUSU will now look at the suggested proposal for moving to a plant-based catering model in much closer detail and University staff will work closely with them as they do so.

Details of those plans will be shared with staff and students as and when they are made.

The University’s approach to food

As a university committed to Net Zero by 2035, regular feedback sessions are conducted with students around food choices on campus. These have shown, more than anything, that students prefer to have choices on campus.

A wide range of food outlets are present on campus, with an aim to have vegetarian and plant-based options on every menu. Pendle Brew, in particular, is a dedicated vegetarian and vegan café on campus for all students, staff and visitors to enjoy.