In response to a student survey, SAIT is bringing Jugo Juice to Campus Centre as early as March 2011.
The polytechnic is responding to survey results in which students requested a smoothie or juice bar on campus. Students and Trojan staff specifically asked for Calgary-based company Jugo Juice over Booster Juice.
“A lot of people are following the health food trend, and Jugo Juice fills that niche on campus,” said Wayne Gee, SAIT director of commercial services.
Contracts to begin construction will be completed later this week.
Gee says Jugo Juice will be open during Trojan events.
“Jugo Juice will enhance the game day experience for the Trojans like when you go see a Stamps or Flames game,” said Mark Pretzlaff, athletics manager.
“We want Trojan fans to have a multitude of options beyond coffee or pop.”
SAIT will monitor the success of the franchise to determine whether or not to bring more health-food options on campus.
“It costs to eat healthy, we’re not sure everyone supports it,” said Gee. “Everyone wants to eat healthy but they aren’t always willing to pay.”
Budd Brazier, manager of recreation, says Jugo Juice will be a healthy option for the patrons of the Wellness Centre before or after working out. SAIT hasn’t said yet whether Jugo Juice’s hours will mirror those of the Wellness Centre or not.
Lindy Kennedy, registered dietician and Nutrition for Healthy Living instructor, recommends drinking a protein-packed juice after a workout to feed new muscle growth and keep the high that comes from great exercise.
“Jugo Juice will fit in nicely,” said Kennedy. She cautions students about portion control as calories can add up quickly when it comes to a liquid lunch.
Kennedy suggests students ask for an 8 oz. portion, which provides enough nutrients without maxing out on calories. A child-sized Jugo Juice is 12 oz.
If bigger is better in your mind, Kennedy says to watch out for drinks that surpass 350 calories – the equivalent  of a regular meal – or you’ll be drinking up more energy than needed.
“A liquid lunch offers great nutrients but has little to no sustainability,” said Kennedy.
Drinking fresh juice provides antioxidants, fibre, vitamins, minerals and energy in the form of calories.
Jugo Juice provides the added benefit of protein shots.
A Jugo Juice drink has an equal number of calories to Minute Maid orange juice, but has the benefits of more fibre from the pulp, according to Kennedy.
Students can also currently get their fill of fresh juice from the juice bar at SAITSA’s Station Market. SAITSA president Courtney Garlough said she isn’t concerned about how the new food outlet will impact Students’ Association-run retail operations.
“SAITSA isn’t concerned because the Station is located in Senator Burns,” said Garlough. “We’d be more concerned if Jugo Juice was across the hall.”
Garlough said Jugo Juice brings different options for students and healthy competition between the two outlets.
The SAITSA Station offers Greens+ products and high quality ingredients.