Steaming hot ramen and candy galore. These are just a few of the many things students can buy at the Gator Cafe, but do students really know what they are putting in their bodies?
On October 8, 2025 California passed a new law, banning ultra-processed food from school lunches. Some of these foods include packaged chips, processed meat and pre-packaged meals. The law was passed in hope that students would have more nutritional breakfasts and lunches.
This was especially important to students who don’t have easy access to healthier food items.
So the impending question is, “Are Xavier’s lunches nutritious?”
Eric Carrasco, Gator Cafe manager, says he tries to keep up with all the headlines regarding school lunches and health.
“I’m all for RFK’s approach to hold big food companies accountable and to get rid of things that should not exist in our food, because really, nobody knows what they’re eating,” Carrasco says.
He says that a lot of the items in the Cafe are baked and never fried and that he chooses items that have healthier options.
“I asked students what they would like to see and a lot of students recommended Trailmix or yogurt parfaits,” says Carrasco.
He says that he wants to keep the cafe on a healthier side and lean toward more nutritional options. “Food and brain go hand-in-hand. What you eat can affect your performance in everyday life, so it’s important to keep our school lunches healthier,” Carrasco added.
For students interested in getting involved behind the counter, the Gator Cafe offers a wide range of service opportunities.
Volunteers are able to gain 15 minutes of service for working at break time and 30 minutes of service for volunteering during lunch. Not only that, but a student can gain the perk of a dollar discount on café items when not behind the counter.
Mariah Broom-Arzate ‘27, Gator Cafe volunteer, says the Cafe has been a great opportunity to give back to the student body and to be behind the scenes of the Gator Cage. “Joinig this volunteer program has given me so many opportunities to learn more about the kitchen and how it works,” Broom-Arzate says.
Alice Patton ‘26, another volunteer, says the Gator Cafe is a great way to gain service hours and meet new people.
“I highly encourage those interested in making an appearance in the Gator Cafe to reach out to Mrs. Peña for further direction on getting involved,” Patton says.
Melissa Peña is the director of financial aid, helping students live up to the full potential here at Xavier with service opportunities.
Looking into the future the Gator Cafe hopes to continue improving its menu and listening to students’ feedback.
