Leeds City College

Schools and colleges across the UK are diversifying their meals to support healthy eating and help tackle the climate crisis.

Fabrice Teston, Deputy Head of Food & Catering Services at Leeds City College, is using his love for food to inspire the next generation to eat well through a range of meat-free and healthy eating initiatives.

Over the past year, Fabrice’s drive for change has resulted in hosting various events, including QuornPro’s taster days across Leeds City College, Harrogate College and Keighley College where students sampled the new QuornPro ChiQin range.

QuornPro’s ChiQin range consists of Vegan Buttermilk Burgers, Wings, Strips and Fillets, making it easier to eat healthy and sustainably without sacrificing taste. Students were able to sample a variety of dishes and try their luck at the Spin the Wing competition, which aimed to provide awareness of the sustainability of QuornPro’s and protein-based products.

Over the years, our eating habits have changed. With the rise of veganism and vegetarianism, there has become an increasing demand for plant-based products as people consider healthier, sustainable food choices to improve their diets and tackle the climate emergency.

Having worked in the catering industry for more than 30 years, Fabrice is used to serving up a wealth of experience when it comes to all things food. “I always wanted to become a teacher. I knew I wanted to help students to feed themselves better, but also support them in a career with so many opportunities. I have a strong passion for education and food, and my current role enables me to successfully combine both.”

“We wanted to diversify our food provision and include more vegan and vegetarian products on our menu, so this was the perfect opportunity. The event was met with a roaring success and resulted in developing a close relationship with QuornPro.”

Jemma Williams, QuornPro’s Account Development Executive, was also there on the day. She said: “I love working to ensure people of all ages have access to healthy and sustainable ways to enjoy great-tasting food that doesn’t break the bank. It’s important that people understand the full range of choices that are available to them. “

Students enjoyed sampling the products and were shocked by how much they tasted like chicken. One student said “I was pleasantly surprised by the flavour and texture! It was very tasty – can’t tell it’s not chicken!.”

Even small changes have a significant impact. Leeds City College now promotes meat-free Mondays at their Quarry Hill campus, offers fresh produce to staff and students, and has even removed sugary drinks and snacks from meal cards.

Protein-based options including QuornPro Dippers and Burgers are now regular staples on the college’s weekly menu.

Job done.