Panda Express overly criticized

Although Panda Express does not offer the most nourishing fare on campus, they should not face criticism for a lack of specially prepared vegetarian food. It seems like at every eatery on campus, vegetarians have multiple options to choose from. There is a dizzying array of meat-free pita sandwiches, pasta dishes, curries, bean burgers, chili, tofu and even vegan cupcakes offered for those following such a diet. As a health conscious student who tries to eat a gluten-free low glycemic diet based on natural protein sources and fresh produce, I have exactly one option for a grab-and-go lunch at Saladelia, in the form of a Chef salad made with cold cuts. It comes with a wedge of pita bread. I have never seen reduced sugar desserts, certified gluten-free meals, or designated hormone-free meat and dairy products (unaccompanied by sugary and starchy sauces) at any of the campus restaurants.

The people who should be complaining about their lack of accommodations-carb watchers, gluten intolerant students, diabetics, and those seeking organic foods-are silent. Perhaps they are being proactive and preparing their meals to meet their dietary needs. It is simply not feasible to cater to each and every particular dietary restriction, with such a low demand for particular types of specialty fare. Vegetarians at Duke are fortunate enough that if they don't like the fry practices at Panda Express, they can walk 20 yards down the BC walkway to another vendor. There is always the Refectory, Alpine, Blue Express, The Loop, Subway and even the little café in French Science for your "flesh-free" fix.

Statistically speaking, vegetarian dining options are overrepresented at this school-2.3 percent of the United States population claims to be vegetarian, compared to upwards of 30 percent of Americans who are suffering from some degree of gluten-sensitivity. Designated vegetarians at Duke can even spend their food points at the Durham Co-op, whereas no such option exists for other special diets. If you can't live without your Americanized Chinese food readily available on campus, you should probably reconsider your way of eating. If grabbing lunch requires spending your Dining Points at another conveniently located restaurant on campus, then lucky you.

Lauren Benning

Trinity '10