April is a month dedicated to awareness and reflection, as it is both Stress Awareness Month and Earth Month. This serves as a reminder for us to take care of our well-being while also caring for our planet. According to Mates in Mind, stress, depression, or anxiety accounted for 49% of all work-related health issues and 54% of all working days lost due to these conditions.
Harvard University’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health explains that shifting towards a more plant-based diet can help reduce freshwater usage and deforestation. You don’t have to become a vegetarian or vegan; simply adding more vegetables and whole grains to your meals can benefit the planet.
This is the philosophy behind the Meatless Monday movement! Many comforting foods that evoke warmth and nostalgia are plant-based options. American Dining Creations and Kelly’s Choice have collaborated to offer classic comfort foods that can alleviate stress while also being eco-friendly, including items you might find in your cafe.
1. Hearty Soups and Stews
A warm bowl of soup or stew is one of the ultimate comfort foods, and it’s a great way to reduce food waste. Using vegetable scraps, leftover grains, and sustainably sourced proteins, soups, and stews maximize the use of available ingredients while offering a nourishing, stress-relieving meal.
Sustainability Tip: Choose locally grown, in-season vegetables and plant-based proteins like lentils or beans to reduce your carbon footprint.
Cafeteria Option: Look for vegetarian chili choices. These are hearty and satisfying options made with responsibly sourced ingredients.
2. Oatmeal: The Cozy, Sustainable Breakfast
Oatmeal is a simple, nutrient-dense breakfast that provides steady energy and keeps you full—great for managing stress. Oats require less water to grow than other grains and are often cultivated with minimal pesticides, making them an eco-friendly staple.
Sustainability Tip: To minimize environmental impact, buy organic or locally sourced oats and top your bowl with seasonal fruits or nuts.
Cafeteria Option: Employees may find oatmeal stations with customizable toppings like nuts, dried fruit, and cinnamon, making for a sustainable and stress-relieving breakfast.
3. Dark Chocolate Treats
Chocolate is a go-to comfort food for many, and when chosen wisely, it can be a sustainable indulgence. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants that support mental well-being and help combat stress.
Sustainability Tip: Look for fair-trade and Rainforest Alliance-certified chocolate to ensure ethical and environmentally responsible farming practices.
Cafeteria Option: For a sweet yet sustainable treat, grab a dark chocolate snack bar or a trail mix with dark chocolate chunks.
4. Freshly Baked Bread
Few things are as comforting as the smell of freshly baked bread. Making your own bread allows you to control ingredients, avoid preservatives, and reduce packaging waste.
Sustainability Tip: Use organic or locally milled flour and experiment with ancient grains like spelt or einkorn. These are often more resilient and require fewer resources to grow, not to mention being higher in fiber.
Cafeteria Option: Look for freshly baked whole-grain rolls or artisan bread in your cafeteria. These are perfect for pairing with soup or enjoying on their own.
5. Plant-Based Mac and Cheese
A creamy bowl of mac and cheese is the epitome of comfort, and a plant-based version can be just as satisfying. Nutritional yeast, cashews, and plant-based milk create a creamy, cheesy texture without the environmental impact of dairy farming.
Sustainability Tip: Try whole-grain or legume-based pasta to add fiber and protein while making your meal more nutritious and eco-friendly.
Cafeteria Option: Some cafeterias offer vegan mac and cheese, a plant-based alternative to the classic dish that’s just as delicious.
6. Herbal Teas for Stress Relief
A cup of tea is a simple yet powerful way to unwind. Herbal teas like chamomile, peppermint, and ginger soothe the mind and body without the need for artificial additives or excess processing.
Sustainability Tip: Choose organic and loose-leaf teas to reduce pesticide exposure and packaging waste.
Cafeteria Option: Your cafeteria may offer a variety of herbal teas, perfect for reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
Finding Comfort in Sustainability
We can nourish ourselves by making small, intentional food choices while minimizing our environmental impact. This April, as we recognize Stress Awareness Month and Earth Month, let’s embrace comfort foods that bring us joy and support a healthier planet.