As students, it’s fair to expect our university canteen to cater to us in a way that’s both affordable and healthy. The prices for basic items, like fruit, seem unnecessarily high—charging over 60p for a single piece feels steep. At the very least, fruit should be accessible to us at around 30p, ensuring everyone can make a healthier choice without having to stretch their budgets.

When I went around, I was disappointed to see the limited options for those wanting healthier meals. Sure, there are vending machines everywhere, but it’s nearly impossible to find a nutritious snack. Where’s the variety for those of us looking for food that’ll sustain us through the day without resorting to carb-heavy options like paninis?

In the union bar and other dining spots, we’re mainly offered options packed with carbs. Where are the healthier, balanced meals—simple choices like cereal, porridge, fruit at kiosks, or even fresh salad bowls? Nutrition plays a big role in our performance and well-being, and it feels like our campus offerings could reflect that more.

It would make such a difference to see a shift toward both affordability and diversity in healthy options on campus. We’re students, and this is our university—we deserve food options that are both good for us and for our wallets.