#United States #Charlotte #Smoothies #Chartwells #Campus Dining

Smoothies Surge in Popularity Among College Students

Recent research conducted by Chartwells Higher Education, a leading provider of dining services in college environments, has unveiled a significant trend: smoothies are now the most requested food among students. The company reports that 26% of surveyed students have indicated smoothies as their number one culinary desire, emphasizing the importance of incorporating quick, nutritious options into campus dining menus.

In response to this student feedback, Chartwells has launched its new retail brand, Blends and Bowls, which focuses on providing a diverse range of customizable smoothies and acai bowls. This innovative approach aligns with the broader shift towards healthy eating habits that are convenient and suitable for busy student lifestyles, as reflected in the 2025 Campus Dining Index.

Joe Labombarda, Senior Vice President of Culinary at Chartwells, emphasizes that student input is vital for driving culinary innovation. He highlights the growing demand for meals that not only satisfy hunger but also provide sustained energy and nutritional benefits. “The popularity of smoothies showcases a clear trend towards healthier, functional foods that fit seamlessly into students' dynamic schedules,” Labombarda stated.

Blends and Bowls features a menu ripe with tantalizing options. Students can create personal smoothie blends tailored to their taste preferences by selecting from a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, yogurts, proteins, and juices. Some standout offerings include the Protein Cold Brew Coffee, Tropical Greens, Vegan Avocado Coconut, and Tropical Sunrise. Additionally, the brand provides delightful acai bowls, such as the Coconut Dragon Fruit Smoothie Bowl that combines rich flavors from Greek yogurt, strawberries, and dragon fruit, finished with a garnish of coconut and fresh berries.

Chartwells has already begun rolling out its Blends and Bowls concept across various campuses nationwide. The initiative kicked off at Texas State University, where it originated as a pop-up event. The success of this model paved the way for a broader launch, and it even earned Texas State University the prestigious National Retail Account of the Year Award from Chartwells, underscoring the positive impact of student feedback.

Dr. Bill Mattera, Associate Vice President for Student Success and Chief of Staff at Texas State, expressed pride in their involvement with Blends and Bowls, citing it as both a response to student desires and a vehicle for enhancing student health on campus. “This concept has not only improved the variety of healthy and convenient options available but also served as a testament to Chartwells’ dedication to adapting its menu based on student input,” he emphasized.

As Chartwells continues to evolve its dining options, the company reaffirms its commitment to meeting the dynamic needs of college students. By integrating insights gathered directly from the student body, they aim to enhance the campus dining experience significantly. To explore more about Chartwells and their offerings, visit Chartwells Higher Education.

About Chartwells Higher Education

Chartwells is recognized as a leader in food service management, hospitality, and guest service across over 320 higher education institutions in the United States. The company is transforming on-campus dining by investing in innovative social spaces that foster interactions among students, bringing together culinary excellence, nutrition, sustainability, and cutting-edge technology.