Switch to reusable with MSU dining halls

MSU began the semester with new reusable takeout containers in the dining halls that will not only be more environmentally friendly, but also lower university spending.

USEFULL, a Boston-based company focused on reducing the use of plastic takeout containers, began its partnership with MSU recently, according to the MSU Culinary Services website. Previously, MSU utilized single-use cardboard containers for to-go meals in the dining halls. Now, due to USEFULL, those have been replaced with a stainless-steel alternative.

“By implementing this reusable to-go bowl program on MSU's campus, we eliminate waste, save water and reduce emissions to meet our sustainability goals,” said Stacie Metzger, the associate director of residence dining halls. She said the move was budget-friendly, as it will save the campus around $70,000 annually.

This transition came after 18 months of deliberation and planning, according to Metzger. It was prompted because the new stainless-steel packaging keeps food warmer and safer during transport. Additionally, the metal composition prevents leakage, which was all too prevalent in the cardboard alternatives. While other container options exist on the market, USEFULL’s entirely plastic-free technology drew MSU’s attention.

Alison Cove, the founder of USEFULL, spoke on how the stainless-steel containers utilize recyclable materials for approximately 30 percent of the product. “After about 25 uses, USEFULL containers are a net positive to the environment,” said Cove. The container system is also paired with a student-accessible app to help track the true impact of their product in local communities.

There are built-in precautions against stealing, as students will be charged for possible late returns. “If the containers are not returned within 48 hours of checkout, USEFULL charges $1 per day and caps at $25, at which point the student would own the container,” Metzger said. USEFULL's containers are leased to the university, so there is no purchase of replacement containers by the University as a result. According to USEFULL’s website, their product is returned to dining halls 99 percent of the time.

While the initial investment to procure the containers is significant, the long-term costs are drastically cut, according to Metzger. The funds to purchase the USEFULL containers did not come out of students’ pockets, as the price of eating on campus was not affected by this investment.

“Many of our students are increasingly conscious of their environmental impact and prefer businesses that prioritize sustainability. Offering reusable containers aligns with our students' values and enhances their experience,” Metzger said.