WINGATE, N.C. — A North Carolina university is under fire for serving students questionable food, which has raised concerns about food safety at Wingate University.
Students sent WSOC-TV pictures of undercooked chicken and worms in broccoli.
An investigation by the Union County Health Department into the concerns at Wingate University came after several students and parents complained.
The university said its making changes.
"There (were) worms in the broccoli," said student Makiya Hargrave.
"The food is nasty. It's disgusting. We pay too much to go here, and it's just like we don't get what we pay for," said Jordan Revas.
Some students said they steer clear of the dining hall.
"I try to avoid it as much as I can," said Hargrave.
Students and parents contacted the health department.
One student said she saw cafeteria staff drop a cheeseburger on the floor, pick it up and serve it to another student.
"It's just ridiculous," said Revas.
Last week, WSOC contacted Wingate University about the concerns and officials said only one parent had ever complained.
WSOC requested documents from the Union County Health Department and found there were multiple complaints from students and parents. The university's food service provider contacted the health department to report issues and asked for a re-inspection.
The inspector said they found more worms in the broccoli, resulting in it being pulled, according to the documents.
"I probably would have (eaten) it and gotten sick," said Revas.
On Sept. 5 the university sent a letter to parents about the tainted meals.
Wingate's food vendor, Aramark, was making immediate changes including, a new general manager, and saying its staff had increased by 40% and washed produce more.
Aramark also requested a full re-inspection of the dining facility from the health department.
The agency said all employees would undergo a food handler's course.
"I still find myself inspecting it first," said LaVonda Briggs
Some students said they've noticed a change in the dining hall.
"I feel like they are really trying to listen to the students and our feedback for our health and safety," said Briggs.