Canadian Restaurant Chains Urged to Boost Plant-Based Options in New Report
A recent report by World Animal Protection, Moving the Menu 2024, reveals that Canadian restaurant chains are largely lagging in providing plant-based menu options and have yet to commit to reducing meat consumption.
Out of 23 restaurant chains reviewed, Chipotle earned a B grade for its range of plant-based options and its commitment to promoting plant-based eating, while other chains, including Starbucks and Tim Hortons, received a C due to additional charges for plant-based milk.
McDonald’s, Wendy’s, KFC, and Popeyes received failing grades for lacking significant plant-based options. The report urges restaurant chains to integrate plant-based proteins into their sustainability goals, increase plant-based offerings, and reduce animal product usage by 25% by 2030.
It also highlights the need for chains to explore new food innovations like fermentation-based and cell-cultivated proteins to meet both climate goals and consumer expectations.
World Animal Protection Canada’s Lynn Kavanagh emphasized the urgency, stating, “The future of our planet depends on bold, decisive action to reduce our reliance on animal products.”
According to Kavanagh, embracing plant-based options benefits animals, human health, and the environment, creating a “more sustainable world.”
Survey data underscores the potential market for these changes. Beyond Meat found that while 67% of Canadians would consider reducing red meat, many remain skeptical about plant-based alternatives.
Similarly, a Sodexo Canada survey showed that nearly half of respondents are interested in replacing some animal proteins with plant-based options, suggesting that a strategic focus on flexitarians could broaden appeal.
With plant-based eating gaining traction among Canadian consumers, the report calls for restaurant chains to step up their plant-based game, catering to the demand for healthier, sustainable alternatives and reducing environmental impact.
Interested in how restaurants are adapting to meet demand for plant-based options? Visit our homepage for more insights and updates.
