Honam University Students Donate Proceeds from Upcycled Dessert Booth to Local Welfare Organizations
Table of Contents
Students from Honam University’s department of Food and Nutrition donated the profits earned from their “Rice River Upcycling Financier” dessert booth to the Gwangju Metropolitan City Social Welfare Council and Food Bank. The booth operated during the “2025 Fish Ranking Festival” held on campus from October 29-31, wiht support from the university’s Employment and Entrepreneurship Center.
The initiative was spearheaded by ‘Bran Planet,’ an employment club within the Department of Food and Nutrition. Students developed and sold desserts utilizing rice bran, a byproduct of local agricultural processes, demonstrating an innovative approach to eco-friendly food production. This upcycling process transforms agricultural waste into a valuable ingredient, reducing environmental impact. https://www.fao.org/food-loss-and-food-waste/en/
The funds generated from sales were used to purchase food and essential daily necessities, which were then donated to underprivileged individuals and families in the Gwangju region.
Student and Faculty Perspectives
Jinho Park, the representative of the Employment Startup Club, emphasized the dual benefit of the project. “It was very meaningful to be able to protect the environment and realize social value at the same time by practicing rice bran upcycling,” Park stated. “It was even more meaningful to be able to use the proceeds from such activities to help our neighbors in need.” He further committed to continuing sustainable social contribution activities leveraging the skills and knowledge of the Food and Nutrition department.
Professor Eunjin Jeong,advisor to the Department of Food and Nutrition,expressed pride in the students’ initiative. “I am very proud that the students practiced eco-friendly upcycling based on their major knowledge and connected it to sharing with the local community,” Jeong said. She affirmed the department’s commitment to providing education that fosters regional growth and integrates social values into its curriculum.
The Importance of Food Upcycling and Community Engagement
Food upcycling is gaining traction as a sustainable practice to address both food waste and food insecurity. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, food waste is a significant contributor to landfill waste and greenhouse gas emissions.https://www.epa.gov/sustainable-management-food Initiatives like the one undertaken by Honam University students demonstrate how educational institutions can play a vital role in promoting sustainable practices and fostering community engagement.
This project exemplifies a commitment to social responsibility and environmental stewardship, showcasing the potential for students to make a tangible difference in their communities through innovative and sustainable solutions. The Department of Food and Nutrition at Honam University intends to continue these efforts, integrating similar projects into its educational programs and contributing to the well-being of the Gwangju region.