Columbia University Apologizes for Menu Error, Addressing Backlash
Columbia University recently faced criticism after a dining hall menu inadvertently advertised “October 7th Blush Sauce” on the anniversary of the tragic Hamas terror attacks. The incident drew attention from various quarters, including the Israeli newspaper Haaretz correspondent Simone Saidmehr, who shared an image of the menu showing the phrase “October 7th” alongside “Blush Sauce.” Many interpreted this as a reference to the attacks that claimed over 1,200 lives.
Vicki Dunn, assistant vice president of Columbia Dining, explained to Fox News Digital that the occurrence was an “unfortunate mistake.” She clarified that the blush sauce name was scheduled but the date remained in the template by accident. “Our staff took the signs down as soon as the mistake was identified,” Dunn stated. “We are sorry for the confusion and concern this caused.” For future measures, Columbia Dining will have a team member review all menus prior to their posting.
Columbia University echoed this explanation in a statement on X, addressing Saidmehr’s initial post. The university emphasized that the occurrence was “a mistake, not a reference to the events of October 7” and assured that the date was left unintentionally during menu preparation. They apologized for any concern caused, noting that the signs were removed as the error was noticed.
In the aftermath of the Oct. 7 attacks three years ago, Columbia University experienced multiple protests and encampments opposed to Israel. Consequently, the institution was subject to several federal civil rights investigations related to allegations of inadequate protection for Jewish students. Furthermore, by July 2025, the Trump administration mediated a $221 million settlement with Columbia University over discriminatory practices, including antisemitic employment discrimination claims involving Jewish faculty.
Despite the settlement and investigations, Columbia continued to witness anti-Israel activism. Members of The Columbia Intifada gathered at the university recently, though the institution has noted that the group is not formally associated with the school.
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