Yesterday I was able to attend and participate in the Rose Cafe series with Paul Muscente and Chef Daniel. It was a very interesting and educational discussion. I really apprecaited that we were able to ask so many questions, and that they were so open and honest with the answers.
To start, I was unaware of the logistics that went into making cornell dining a top 10 dining school. First, cornell serves over 22000 meals a day, which is amazing. Additionally, each dining hall’s meals rotate weekly, (minimum), so you can theoretically go several weeks without eating the same meal. It’s amazing the variety of dining that Cornell offers.
What I found to be interesting is the way they determine the success of a meal. They mentioned they spend a large percent of the time checking the type and amount of food that gets thrown away. That indicates whether or not they should continue that meal, or if they should make less of it in the future. I thought that was very clever.
I asked what the new initiative to limit the amount of meat served to people, and they mentioned it was both for waste management, as well as for health reasons. My question to those reading this: what are your thoughts on this new initiative? Do you think it also has to do with saving money? Do you think they should or will limit the amount of cookies you can take, since they claim it is for health reasons?
I’m a little unsure if I believe that it is health related as they do not limit desserts which are much worse than having more chicken.
Hi Ethan –
In response to the question you posed, it definitely seems like the real reason behind the rationing is cost. Claiming it is for health reasons just makes them look better. The other day, I saw somebody fill up one of the the large bowls, the ones they have at the salad bar, with about 6 scoops of ice cream plus toppings. I few extra pieces of meat doesn’t compare to that in terms of health costs!
One question I have for you, since I was unable to attend the cafe, is what does Rose house do with all the extra food left over at the end of the night? They seem to have quite a system for getting their estimates right, but surely there is food left over. Does any of it get donated?
-Charlotte
Hey Charlotte!
You’re ice cream example is spot on – they don’t care if you have junk food, but they care about the meat.
They compost all thrown out food. As far as leftovers go, I believe that they give them away to a local foodbank (which is great). However, I remember him saying that if its a left over item that’s versatile (like Chicken) they use it the next night in another dish.
Sounds like they do a good job with that.
Thanks for your comment