Queens’ College has been criticised by students over confusion around the provision of halal meat at both an Algerian event (31/01), and a Turkish and Syrian event (14/02).

Students were reportedly incorrectly told that lamb dishes were halal, at the events which offered themed meals around the cuisines of Muslim majority countries.

One Muslim student told Varsity that they had been assured that their food was halal, before being told that this was not the case after the meal had been eaten.

He said: “It’s infuriating that they [Queens’ College] are using Muslim majority countries to seem more cultured and inclusive, but then are making it so that Muslim students can’t even eat the food”.

The anonymous student said the incident demonstrated a lack of understanding and education on the college’s part, describing the college’s actions as “nothing but blatant cultural appropriation”.

The incidents have raised broader claims from students that they have previously felt excluded from hall food, with many Muslim students opting to eat elsewhere. Another student told Varsity: “I feel discouraged to go to hall, and feel that there is a lack of care from college”.

Other students pointed to the fact that even when halal meat is served, it is often cooked in wine or served with bacon, further limiting Muslim students’ options.

When asked for comment, Queens’ College told Varsity: “The Catering team and wider college community at Queens’ works very hard to provide a schedule of themed events and appropriate meals for our students and customers. At the most recent Algerian and Turkish & Syrian themed events, all the options were halal except one and menus are carefully prepared to ensure food is served as advertised. Vegetarian and vegan options are always available and we endeavour to provide options that cater to a variety of dietary requirements.”

“The recent Syrian and Turkish theme day on Tuesday 14 February was added to the diary at the suggestion of our Chefs and Catering department. They wanted an event which could raise funds for the Earthquake disaster, this was supported by the JCR, MCR and wider College. This was a huge success, with all the daily income being donated to https://www.dec.org.uk/, the final total for this was over £2500.”

The spokesperson added: “The themed events we hold are always popular and we have not received any direct complaints or feedback regarding incorrectly prepared halal options following any of our recent events. If any students or customers have concerns, we would welcome your feedback and suggestions for improvement to our service.”