By Oumy Gaye
Students at De Montfort University (DMU) have raised concerns about the rising cost of food on campus, saying higher prices are making it harder to afford regular meals during the academic year.
Several students said they are being forced to bring food from home or skip meals between lectures as the cost of living continues to rise.
Claire Knowles, 20, a second-year law student, said the rising cost of food on campus has added pressure to an already tight student budget.
“Prices have gone up a lot this year,” she said. “Buying food on campus every day just isn’t realistic anymore.”
She said she now cuts back by bringing packed lunches and avoiding hot meals between lectures.
“I must plan everything carefully now,” she added. “Sometimes I’ll just wait until I get home because I can’t justify spending £5 or £6 on one meal.”
Sam Adewole, 21, a business management third year student, said: “It’s not just food, everything is more expensive.
“But when you’re on campus all day, you can’t really avoid buying something to eat. Meal deals help, but there still needs to be more affordable options.”
He said while meal deals help, they are not always filling or affordable in the long term.
“Cheaper options are a good start,” he added, “but students need more affordable and healthy choices, especially when we’re here for hours.”
A spokesperson for DMU said the university is aware of student concerns and it is reviewing food pricing across campus
Joseph Turner, Head of Campus Services, said the university aims to provide a range of food options to suit different budgets while supporting on site catering providers.
A Students’ Union representative also encouraged students to share feedback on campus facilities and food pricing.
As the cost-of-living crisis continues, students say access to affordable food remains a priority for improving daily life on campus.
