HDS Takes Aim at Food-Nappers

A recent crackdown on the removal of food from Annenberg dining hall has upset many first-year students.

Harvard Dining Services (HDS) officially prohibits all undergraduates from taking food out of the dining halls, but a rash of food-napping since the beginning of the semester has led the Annenberg staff to implement strict compliance with the no take-out policy.

According to Annenberg Manager Katherine E. D'Andria, the policy is designed to protect students' health.

"They may take a sandwich and not eat it, put it in their pocket, and, if it has mayonnaise or something, it could get contaminated," she said.

Students caught carrying anything from apples to bagels out of the food facility have been reprimanded, and a few have been asked to relinquish their edibles at the door.

Whether the crackdown by the dining hall staff has been effective remains to be seen, D'Andria said.

"We can't tell yet, but I hope it's made a difference," she said.

Many first-years said they are disturbed by the inconsistent enforcement of the HDS policy since most upperclass students can take food out of their dining halls relatively easily.

"I think it's ridiculous that in every dining facility except Annenberg students can grab a bite to go--like a soda and some fruit," said Emily N. Wallach '01.

Students are permitted to take food outside the dining facilities only when they request a bag meal in advance, according to the HDS policy.

Yet, some students said that the Annenberg staff's heightened vigilance has led them to extreme measures.

A few first-years said they evade detection by slipping food into their backpacks.

"I know people who sneak milk out to eat with the cereal they keep in their rooms," said Melissa A. Crandall '01.