13-03-2023
NOVA University Lisbon received the Seal of Excellence "Healthy Diet in Higher Education". The initiative of the Directorate-General of Health aims to encourage universities to promote a healthier, more balanced and sustainable diet among the university population.
The certification now awarded to NOVA is the result of the guarantee of a set of requirements met by the institution in the scope of the modification and qualification of its food offer. This required a joint work between the Rectorate, the nine organic units and the Social Welfare Services, which resulted in important changes. Among them, the elimination of soft drinks in the canteens and their replacement by water from the public supply system; the availability - with greater visibility - of healthier food options such as fruit, sandwiches and dairy products; or even the elimination of salt dispensers in the canteens and bars.
The official attribution of the Seal took place on March 3rd at Palácio da Rocha do Conde D'Óbidos in Lisbon. Representing NOVA, João Seixas (Pro-Rector in charge of Socio-territorial Innovation) highlighted that "with this certification, NOVA University Lisbon reinforces its commitment to the health and well-being of its students, teaching staff and employees, as well as to the paths to follow in the areas of sustainability and social and territorial cohesion. By promoting a more balanced, healthier and more sustainable diet, we will be contributing not only to improving the quality of life of the whole academic community, but also of society itself and of the planet". This certification strengthens NOVA's responsibility and commitment to continue working to improve the offer and eating habits of its entire community.
