A “Small Rice Button” to Reduce Food Loss

With the start of the spring 2022 semester, student cafeterias introduced a “small rice button,” which allows users to order a smaller portion of rice.

The small rice button idea came from students at an Office of Sophia Sustainability Promotion event for food loss prevention measures. Staff from the sustainability office developed and implemented the idea in consultation with cafeteria staff. 

Interviews with student staff revealed that leftovers from diners were the greatest source of cafeteria food loss. It is believed that the use of this order button for smaller portions of rice will greatly reduce food loss at the university.

(Student Staff: Kirara)