Types of Food Served in Colleges vs. Indian College Hostels
Colleges around the world offer a wide array of food options to cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs. Meanwhile, in India, college-goers residing in hostels typically have access to a buffet-style service known as a “mess.” Both systems have unique characteristics, which we will explore in this article.
Types of Food Served in College Dining Halls
Colleges typically prioritize catering to diverse tastes and accommodating various dietary preferences. Here are some common types of food found in college dining halls:
Cafeteria Style
Salad Bar: Features a selection of fresh vegetables, dressings, and toppings for students to build their own salads. Hot Entrees: Rotating daily, offering both meat, vegetarian, and vegan options to suit different dietary requirements. Starches: Inclusion of rice, pasta, potatoes, and bread to provide a balanced meal. Desserts: Various options such as cakes, cookies, and fruits to satisfy sweet cravings.Grab-and-Go Options
Quick and easy choices for students on the go, like sandwiches, wraps, salads, and pre-packed snacks.Specialty Stations
Pizza Station: Customizable pizzas with a wide range of toppings tailored to different tastes. Grill Station: Burgers, chicken sandwiches, and fries to cater to those who prefer cooked options. International Cuisine: Dishes from various cultures, including Mexican, Asian, and Mediterranean foods, to explore diverse flavors.Dietary Accommodations
Many colleges go the extra mile to provide options for specific dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergen-free choices.
Coffee Shops and Snack Bars
These outlets offer coffee, pastries, smoothies, and light snacks for those who need a quick caffeine boost or a quick bite.
Cultural Events
Some colleges host themed dining events that showcase specific cuisines or traditions, fostering cultural exchange and appreciation.
The Indian Context: Mess in Hostels
In India, especially in college hostels, students often consume their meals at a communal dining area called a “mess.” Buffet-style service is the norm, offering a variety of carbs, curries, vegetables, salads, and yogurt, though sweets are not a constant presence. Here’s a snapshot of what's typically served:
Daily Dining in a Hostel Mess
Carbs: Rice, roti (Indian flatbread), and occasionally other varieties of grains. Curries: An array of meat, paneer (cottage cheese), and egg-based curries. Vegetables and Salads: A wide range of raw and cooked vegetables. Yogurt: Often included as a side or used as a cooling agent in certain dishes.Student Initiatives in Indian Hostels
There are instances where students take the initiative to serve mess workers as a role reversal, highlighting the communal nature of dining in hostels. For example, the Nirmaan organization at BITS Pilani Goa campus organized a ‘Joy of Giving Week’ where students served food to mess workers.
Similarly, the film making club at BITS Pilani in Pilani campus created a fascinating video exploring the mess system of their campus. Watch the video here.
These initiatives underscore the importance of community and mutual respect within the communal dining spaces of college hostels.
Conclusion
The food quality and variety in college dining halls and hostel mess systems can vary significantly. However, both strive to cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs while providing an essential aspect of the college experience. Whether it's through a diverse buffet or a communal mess, these dining options play a crucial role in fostering a sense of community and belonging among students.