University of Guelph Nominated to peta2's Annual Most Vegetarian-Friendly Universities List

Rivals Go Head-to-Head in Vote to Determine Which School Offers Its Students the Best Food for Thought

Guelph, Ontario(RushPRnews)11/03/08- -- Not that long ago, a vegan meal at many of Canada's universities meant a salad and a baked potato, but times have changed for the better. That's why peta2, the world's largest youth animal rights organization, has announced the nominees for the Most Vegetarian-Friendly Universities competition, and University of Guelph (UG) has made the grade.

Renowned for their exciting pep rallies, students at Guelph have always been known for their university pride. One look at the menu, though, clears up any mystery about where this enthusiasm comes from. Soy meatball pasta, veggie stir-fry with soy beef and noodles, and meatless chicken pad Thai are just some of the many choices that make students (and animals) cheer!

Why are students dropping meat, eggs, and dairy products from their diets faster than a hot potato? For one thing, vegetarians are, on average, fitter and trimmer than meat-eaters. Also, consumption of animal products has been linked to heart attacks, diabetes, and other killer diseases. And going vegan is the single best thing that you can do to help stop animal suffering and protect the environment.

"University of Guelph is showing its respect for students by offering them food choices that are good for their health, animals, and the planet," says peta2's Ryan Huling. "When it comes to serving great meatless options and teaching students a valuable lesson in nutrition and compassion, UG is in the running for vegan valedictorian."

Other nominees include the University of Waterloo, the University of Toronto, and McGill University. Universities were chosen according to student recommendations, feedback through MySpace and Facebook, and the popular peta2 blog. Everyone is eligible to vote. The schools with the most votes will be announced in November and will receive certificates to display in their campus dining halls.

To view the entire list of the 16 Canadian and 32 U.S. colleges and universities that were nominated--and to cast your vote--please visit peta2.com/College.

Contact:Ryan Huling 757-622-7382