Frequently Asked Questions
Who decides on this initiative?
Everyone. The current focus is on students’ opinions. In the end, the initiative will be implemented collaboratively with students and staff. The university remains the responsible institution—not external organizations.
Does it really make a difference for the climate and environment?
Yes. Animal products require significantly more water, land, and energy than plant-based foods. Agriculture—especially livestock farming and feed production—is one of the main drivers of deforestation and biodiversity loss. Every plant-based meal reduces the ecological footprint.
Will I get enough protein, iron, and other nutrients?
Yes. Legumes, nuts, whole grains, and vegetables provide all essential nutrients. The Swiss Society for Nutrition (SGE, 2025) confirms that a purely plant-based diet can be health-promoting for adults when properly planned. University cafeterias are fully capable of designing nutritionally optimized menus.
I work out regularly. Will I still get all the important nutrients in the cafeteria?
Yes. Several studies and meta-analyses show that a well-balanced, fully plant-based diet can enhance athletic performance, reduce fatigue, and shorten recovery time (Damasceno et al., 2023; Govindasamy et al., 2025). Many top athletes have reported positive experiences as well — among them Strongman Patrik Baboumian, ultramarathon runner Fiona Oakes, Ironman triathlete Brendan Brazier, and tennis professionals Venus Williams and Novak Djokovic, all of whom have achieved remarkable athletic success and world records.
Is the offering flexible enough for allergies or intolerances?
Yes. In fact, it would improve the situation for people with allergies. Currently, many “plant-based” dishes in the cafeteria still contain allergens like nuts, soy, or gluten, limiting the options for some students. A fully plant-based cafeteria would actively address this challenge: for example, one menu could be gluten-free, another nut-free, and another designed to accommodate common allergies. This makes the cafeteria’s offerings accessible and safe for all students—regardless of allergies or intolerances.
Will there be enough variety for different tastes?
Yes. Plant-based cafeteria menus can be just as diverse as conventional ones, offering international dishes, seasonal vegetables, and innovative recipes.
What about avocados and soy from overseas?
Over 75% of global soy is used for animal feed, not tofu or soy milk. If demand for animal products decreases, soy cultivation also decreases. Moreover, transportation accounts for, on average, less than 5% of a food’s total emissions. Additionally, the cafeteria can focus on local and regional supply chains.
Will I have to give up meat, fish, or dairy products?
No. Plant-based staples such as legumes, grains, and vegetables are cheaper than meat or cheese. The Bryant Report shows that plant-based menus can reduce costs by up to 30% compared to meat-based ones.
Will there only be highly processed substitute products?
No. The focus is on a healthy, balanced diet. Substitute products remain optional and make up only a small part of the offering. The emphasis is on fresh legumes, grains, vegetables, and fruits—natural, wholesome ingredients.
Will traditional or cultural dishes be lost?
No. Plant-based menus can easily include many cultural and traditional recipes. PBU advocates for an inclusive cafeteria that considers dishes reflecting as many religious and cultural dietary preferences as possible.
Is a plant-based cafeteria complicated or expensive to implement?
No. The transition is very manageable. Universities in Switzerland and abroad (Zurich, Neuchâtel, Graz (AT)) have shown that plant-based cafeterias are economically viable, popular with students, and practical in everyday life.
Who is behind the initiative?
Students of the University of Basel. Since the first PBU initiatives began in the UK in 2021, many similar initiatives have emerged across Europe, including Switzerland. At each university, the initiative is independent and student-led. PBU Basel is a project under UNISSA (United for Sustainable Student Action) and is financed and implemented as such.