BOWLING GREEN, Ohio — Bowling Green State University is tackling food waste as a part of its sustainability initiative called "Waste Less, Wag More," which transforms some of the dining hall's food scraps into dog treats.
The program debuted at The Oaks dining hall, which produces an estimated 125 pounds of food waste daily.
Jon Zachrich, spokesperson for BGSU Dining, said it starts with sorting the food in the dining hall. Then the culinary staff and environmental interns go through several steps to make them into the treats.
"We use food waste from our kitchen that are approved," Zachrich said. "The current batch that we're using is carrot and cucumber scraps."
He said treats are made with guidance from veterinarians to ensure safety and flavor for dogs.
This innovative program is one of several other sustainability efforts at BGSU, including composting and food waste education.
"We do a few different food waste programs on campus, really focusing on educating students and improving our operations," Zachrich said. "This is just another fun way we can give back."
The first batch of dog treats was shared during BGSU's Thanksgiving event, with students taking bags home to their pets.
"I'm sure everyone's trying a bunch of new food that they don't know, and half of it ends up in the disposable," freshman Geralyn Mutchler said.
She plans to take some treats to her two golden doodles.
"I think the world is taking good steps to be more environmentally friendly, and I'm glad I'm part of a university that prioritizes it," Mutchler said.
The treats will also be donated to the Wood County Animal Shelter.