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Memorial University looking for 'creative' food provider for new Battery facility

Following last year's controversy about food provider Aramark, Memorial University says it's looking for something different for its new Battery facility on Signal Hill.

Call comes a year after MUN food supplier Aramark took a beating on social media

MUN looking to provide a different dining experience at its new buildings on Signal Hill, St. John's (CBC)

Memorial University is looking to find a new food provider for its new Battery facility on Signal Hill in St. John's.

Aramark food is the provider for food services at other St.John's campus buildings, but a release this week said MUN is looking for something different and has issued a request for expressions of interest.

"We're looking for providers who will be able to offer something creative and fresh and fits our vision for the space as a public engagement and innovation hub," said Rob Greenwood, with MUN's Office of Public Engagement.

In 2015, Students took to social media to display items served at Memorial University's dining hall, sparking change in food quality. (CBC)

About a year ago, Memorial students dissatisfied with the quality of food provided by Aramark took to social media to complain about it. They posted photos of food they say was undercooked and contaminated with insects.

Following that outcry, the university says it did a "rigorous" review of food provided on campus. Aramark also says it made improvements, offering better food and more variety.

Still, the Battery facility is looking for a new supplier.

In a release, MUN said proposals will be assessed on a number of criteria, "from experience and the ability to provide necessary services, to creativity and relevance to Newfoundland and Labrador."

All interested parties are required to attend a session at Memorial, including a visit to the Battery, on either June 17 or 22.

"Finding the right fit is very important to us, so we want to make sure that our submitters understand what we're looking for," said Greenwood.

All submissions must be received by Friday, July 8.