By Madison Wilson, Contributing Writer
On Oct.19, 2023, the Dining Services of Saint Leo University hosted the Tenth Annual Food Vendor Fair.
Everyone was invited out to try different free food and beverage samples supplied to Dining Services by prospective food vendors. There were a wide variety of food samples, from savory to sweet.
One of the companies that attended was Celsius, a healthy energy drink that is already sold on the Saint Leo University campus. They offered a variety of their different flavors to students to try for free.
“Celsius is a better-for-you energy drink with no sugar dye, no high fructose corn syrup, and no artificial colors, it’s a healthier option and it tastes really good,” said Beatrice Roosmark, field marketing manager.
After getting energized, CK’s Produce, a wholesale produce distributor at Tampa’s Farmers Market, allowed everyone to sample various fresh fruits, such as plums, kiwis, oranges, and more.
More food options from nearby vendors included deep-fried ravioli served in two different ways. There was one flavored with brisket, mozzarella, and barbeque. The other had butternut squash, cinnamon sugar, caramel and was topped with whipped cream. These deep-fried plates of ravioli were appealing to the eye and very enjoyable.
There were bagels served with cream cheese and Avieta waffles served with whipped cream, available for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Rich’s products offered samples of gluten-free Detroit-style pizza crust, churro donuts, fresh chocolate chip cookies, and a cold foam coffee.
Tractor Beverage Co. offered many samples of their certified organic, non-GMO, refreshing beverages to students. Some of their flavors included lemonade, mango, strawberry, and others.
In addition to free samples, they allowed students to complete an online survey to receive a gift bag that included a bag, a notebook, stickers, a notebook, and pens with their logo.
Tasty food options were grilled chicken, chicken sandwiches, meatball subs, and a fried mac and cheese breakfast sample. Further down the patio, cheesy mac and cheese was served with crunchy, fried chicken with a pepper crust. There was a sushi vendor that offered tasty sushi for students to try with various sauces.
There were some healthy snack options also introduced to students. Tru Fru offered samples of chocolate-covered strawberries. Their products are made with fresh, natural fruit that is freeze-dried into dark chocolate.
With numerous options to sample and a wide variety of flavors, students could provide input regarding what they wished to see in the dining hall, FUZ Eatery, and Benedict’s.
“I think the food samples today were very refreshing. The dining hall should consider adding most of the foods that were out here today,” said Richenda Salmon, a freshman majoring in business marketing.
At the end of the delicious sampling, students were given the opportunity to participate in a survey designed to ensure that their voices were heard. Questions included asking students what they’d like to purchase at FUZ Eatery, their favorite item at the vendor fair, and what foods they’d like to see in the dining hall next year.
“The food samples were good. I would like to see the chicken sandwich and Tru Fru in the dining hall,” said Lavardo Richards, a sophomore majoring in marketing.
By completing and turning in the survey, students had the chance to win a variety of prizes. Some of the awards included a Saint Leo University blanket, a Saint Leo University teddy bear, gift cards, coffee cups, water bottles, Halloween decor, snacks, and more.
The annual food vendor fair once again brought many students and faculty together to try different varieties of food samples.
Everyone could give their input, take home samples, and have a great time.
