Research from Chartwells Higher Education Unveils Smoothies as the Top-Requested Food Among College Students

New offerings meet growing demand for healthy, convenient options stemming from the company's Campus Dining Index

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Aug. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Chartwells Higher Education, a recognized leader in contract foodservice management, announced it is offering expanded smoothie options with its new 'Blends and Bowls' retail brand. This comes in direct response to student feedback–26% of students said smoothies are their most desired cuisine, making it the number one food students want more of, according to Chartwells Higher Education's 2025 Campus Dining Index.

This data highlights a growing trend for quick, healthy, and functional meals and snacks that fit fast-paced student lifestyles. With packed academic and social schedules, students are looking for foods that provide sustained energy and nutritional value.

"Student feedback is the cornerstone of our culinary innovation, and we've seen a significant shift toward students wanting practical, tasty foods that fuel their everyday academic or athletic pursuits," said Joe Labombarda, Senior Vice President of Culinary at Chartwells Higher Education. "The popularity of smoothies is a clear signal of this trend, and with the launch of Blends and Bowls, we can provide students with the convenient, healthy options they're craving, made with fresh ingredients that can be customized to their taste."

The new Blends and Bowls brand will offer an array of customizable smoothies and bowl options designed to provide easy, nutrient-dense food options. Students can choose from a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, juices, yogurt, and proteins to create personalized blends that fuel their days. Signature drinks include the Protein Cold Brew Coffee, Tropical Greens, Vegan Avocado Coconut, and Tropical Sunrise. Students can also opt for acai bowls, such as the Coconut Dragon Fruit Smoothie Bowl, which incorporates Greek yogurt, strawberries, dragon fruit, and agave, topped with coconut and fresh berries. With high-quality, fresh produce, Blends and Bowls allows guests to prioritize health on the go.

Blends and Bowls has begun rolling out at campuses across the country, including Texas State University, where the concept originally started as a pop-up. The concept's success led to a national rollout, and also helped Texas State University win the National Retail Account of the Year Award, presented by Chartwells.

"We're incredibly proud to have helped pioneer Blends and Bowls, which has become a tried and true campus favorite for students," said Dr. Bill Mattera, Associate Vice President for Student Success and Chief of Staff at Texas State University. "The success of this concept not only brings additional healthy and convenient options to campuses, but also serves as a testament to listening to and incorporating student feedback into our creative offerings."

Chartwells Higher Education continues to expand its dining options based on student feedback and desires. To learn more, please visit https://chartwellshighered.com/.

About Chartwells Higher Education Dining Services
Chartwells is the recognized leader in contract food service management, hospitality, and guest service at over 320 colleges and universities in the United States. Chartwells is reinventing the on-campus dining experience by investing in high-tech, food-infused social spaces that bring students and people together to promote meaningful relationships and interactions. The company's excellence in culinary, nutrition, technology, and sustainability brings truly unique dining experiences to every campus. To learn more, please visit http://chartwellshighered.com.

SOURCE Chartwells Higher Education