The University of Minnesota bookstore announced Monday they will have more grocery options for students at Coffman Union. 

Jackie Jasperson, who oversees department purchases at the bookstore said the University added grocery items to its convenience store after many students face difficulty accessing food on campus.

Many students have struggled with accessing nearby grocery stores on campus as it’s referred to as a ‘food desert’. 

The bookstore said they partnered with M Food Co., the University’s food and beverage service provider, to assist in providing the food products at the store. 

Neil Olness, the director of the University’s bookstore, said since the bookstore currently operates a convenience store, it was a realistic upgrade to add additional food options for students. 

“We had the convenience store area already set up, so it was natural just to add some more grocery-type items,” Olness said. 

Olness said he hopes to see students make use of the new grocery selection and expects more grocery products to come to the bookstore. 

Jasperson said having the grocery products at the University’s bookstore makes getting food more accessible and affordable for students. 

“We’re just trying to make things available for the students and find the best pricing we can for the students,” Jasperson said.