Gastronomy & Food Service

Tacotarian franchise

© Tacotarian

Tacotarian Opens US Franchise Program Amid Ongoing Regional Expansion

Plant-based Mexican restaurant chain Tacotarian has announced the launch of a franchise program, opening expansion opportunities to entrepreneurs across the United States. The decision follows steady regional growth and increasing consumer demand for plant-based fast-casual dining options. Founded in 2018 in Las Vegas by Kristen and Carlos Corral, along with Regina and Dan Simmons, the company began as a single-location operation and has since expanded to six locations across Las Vegas and San Diego. The brand has also introduced a grocery product line distributed nationally. Earlier this year, the US Small Business Administration named the founding team the 2025 Small Business Persons of the Year for Nevada. “Our original goal was to make plant-based food exciting. Franchising allows us to grow that vision beyond our …

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Nature's Fynd Plantega

© Nature's Fynd

New Nature’s Fynd Fy™ Bites Available at Plantega-Affiliated Locations in NYC

Nature’s Fynd has expanded its product offerings with the introduction of Spicy Indian Fy™ Bites, now available at Plantega-affiliated bodegas across New York City. The new item is part of the company’s line of fungi-based foods utilizing its proprietary protein ingredient, Fy™, and is currently being rolled out across more than 50 locations. The bites are falafel-style and formulated with Fy™, a protein derived from a microbial strain discovered in Yellowstone National Park. Each serving contains 14 grams of protein, 5 grams of fiber, and the equivalent of one-third cup of vegetables. The product is free from the top nine allergens, certified gluten-free, and vegan. Nature’s Fynd CEO and co-founder Thomas Jonas noted, “With Fy Bites, we weren’t trying to mimic meat or dairy—we wanted …

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hospital food

© Viacheslav Yakobchuk - stock.adobe.com

Greener by Default Announces Expanded Partnership With Sodexo to Offer Plant-Based Meals at 400 US Hospitals

The expansion builds on the success of 131 hospitals already offering plant-forward menus with an additional 200 hospitals set to transition in 2025, bringing the total to 400 by 2026 CHICAGO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–#healthcare–Greener by Default announces today the expansion of its partnership with Sodexo, extending the plant-based patient meals program to all U.S. hospitals under Sodexo’s management. This collaboration builds on the remarkable success of Greener by Default and Sodexo’s program with NYC Health + Hospitals, which launched in 2022 and resulted in half of all eligible patients opting for plant-based menu items—cutting the health system’s carbon emissions by over one-third in just its first year. The plant-forward patient menus position nutritious, sustainable plant-based meals as the default option for one meal per day, while preserving …

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Actual Veggies becomes exclusive veggie burger supplier for Eurest

Image courtesy of Eurest

Actual Veggies Becomes Exclusive Veggie Burger Supplier for Eurest

Eurest, a major food service provider for American companies, has announced that Actual Veggies will become its exclusive veggie burger supplier. Through the partnership, Actual Veggies’ chef-crafted Black Bean Burger will be available across Eurest’s more than 1,600 marketplaces US-wide. The launch comes after Chris Ivens-Brown, Chief Culinary Officer for Eurest and Compass Group North America, bought a box of Actual Veggies burgers to try at home. He was so impressed that he submitted an inquiry to the company, which ultimately led to the partnership. Actual Veggies’ burgers are made using fresh whole vegetables, grains, and a signature spice blend. Eurest’s research and development chefs have developed a variety of recipes highlighting the burgers’ flavors and textures; research conducted by the company reportedly indicates that …

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Hollywood Bowl

© Hollywood Bowl

Hollywood Bowl Launches the Beyond Burger UK-Wide in Time for the Easter Holidays

Hollywood Bowl Group, the operator of bowling brand Hollywood Bowl and Putt & Play mini-golf centres, has announced the introduction of the Beyond Burger at all its UK locations. In a launch timed for the Easter school holidays, the meat-free burger arrived at 71 Hollywood Bowl centres and four Putt & Play locations on April 2. It aims to cater to the growing demand for plant-based options among families and groups. The Beyond Burger joins Hollywood Bowl’s Main Features line-up and costs £6.79. It is served in a brioche-style bun with lettuce and tomato. By default, the burger comes with fries, which are not vegan; however, customers can swap these for tortilla chips to make their meals fully plant-based. Extra toppings such as crispy onions …

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Plant FWD Week

© Sabine Haitsma

Almost 100 Amsterdam Restaurants to Offer Plant-Based Specials for Plant FWD Week

Plant FWD, a conference working to accelerate the protein transition, returns to Amsterdam on April 8-9. To celebrate, Amsterdam restaurants will be joining Plant FWD Week, offering a range of plant-based specials and sustainable menus from April 5-12. Almost 100 restaurants are taking part this year, from meat-based outlets to those known for their plant-based options. Participants include Restaurant De Kas, Madre, Morris & Bella, BAUT, Ron Gastrobar, and Cannibale Royale. There will also be a programme of culinary workshops and collaborative dinners throughout the week. For example, Berlin restaurant Horváth will enter De Kas’ kitchen on April 7 for an exclusive dinner that is already fully booked. “Plant FWD Week is like ADE, but for your taste buds: a week full of discoveries throughout …

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Plant Based Seafood Co. x Wintzell's

© Plant Based Seafood Co.

Iconic Wintzell’s Oyster House Reinvents Southern Seafood with Plant-Based Offerings from Mind Blown

Wintzell’s Oyster House, a Southern seafood institution founded over 85 years ago, has introduced plant-based seafood options in partnership with Mind Blown Plant Based Seafood Co. Its Montgomery, Alabama, location now offers a range of plant-based alternatives, including oysters, shrimp, and crab cakes, available as part of its regular menu. Wintzell’s has built a reputation over the years with its “Fried, Stewed, and Nude” oysters, and the decision to introduce plant-based options is a response to changing customer preferences for more sustainable dining choices. “At Wintzell’s, we take pride in tradition, but we also recognize the importance of offering innovative and sustainable choices for our customers. Partnering with Mind Blown™ allows us to expand our menu while staying true to our commitment to serving the …

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Odd Burger

© Odd Burger

Odd Burger Pauses US Expansion Due to Tariff Concerns, Strengthens Canadian Operations

Canadian vegan fast-food chain Odd Burger has suspended its planned US expansion due to increasing political tensions between Canada and the United States. Just last week, the company outlined plans to expand into the US, which included raising capital to cover costs associated with tariffs and building new manufacturing facilities. The strategy was intended to help mitigate the impact of tariffs and strengthen the company’s supply chain. At the time, McInnes had expressed confidence in the company’s ability to quickly scale while maintaining pricing stability and product quality. However, these expansion efforts are now on hold, and the capital will instead be directed toward strengthening Odd Burger’s operations in Canada. The decision to pause US expansion also comes in response to upcoming US tariffs, scheduled to take …

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Peet's Coffee

© Peet's Coffee

Peet’s Coffee Removes Plant-Based Milk Surcharge Following PETA and Paul McCartney Push

Peet’s Coffee will no longer charge an extra fee for plant-based milks, following pressure from animal rights group PETA and public support from Sir Paul McCartney. The announcement comes after PETA launched a national campaign urging the coffee chain to stop penalizing customers who opt for vegan milks, such as almond, oat, and pea-based varieties, instead of traditional cow’s milk. Peet’s currently charges at least 80 cents more for plant milks, a practice that PETA has criticized for contributing to environmental damage and animal welfare concerns, including the separation of mother cows from their calves. PETA’s campaign included a social media blitz, targeted billboards near Peet’s locations, and protests. The group argued that the upcharge on plant-based milks was inconsistent with Peet’s stated commitment to …

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The Raging Pig Company

© The Raging Pig Company

Germany’s Raging Pig Company Rolls Out Pea and Mushroom-Based Smash-Burger for Restaurants

Hamburg-based foodtech startup The Raging Pig Company has introduced a new plant-based burger patty designed for the food service industry. The Raging Burger Patty, made from peas and mushrooms, is intended for use as a traditional burger patty or as a smash-burger, a preparation method that involves pressing the patty onto a grill to create a crispy exterior and a caramelized flavor. According to the company, the patty was developed to meet the needs of professional kitchens and provide a plant-based alternative to conventional smash-burgers. Dr. Arne Ewerbeck, founder of The Raging Pig Company, explained, “Smash-burgers are more popular than ever, but plant-based alternatives are often still overlooked in the foodservice industry. “With our patty, we’re introducing a plant-based smash-burger to the market – flavorful, juicy, and perfect …

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Matthias Balz INTERNORGA

Matthias Balz © INTERNORGA

INTERNORGA: “The Growing Demand for Sustainable Alternatives Is Significantly Shaping the Global Gastronomy Market”

For over a century, INTERNORGA has been the go-to event for hospitality professionals, offering a comprehensive overview of market developments, cutting-edge solutions and future trends. It is the ultimate meeting point where industry leaders, innovative start-ups, and top decision-makers come together to shape the future of foodservice and hospitality.  The event, which draws over 80,000 visitors and 1,200 exhibitors from more than 30 countries, has become a vital hub for hospitality professionals seeking to tap into global trends, discover the latest innovations, and expand their international network. With its new theme, ‘Where trends take off,’ INTERNORGA takes place from 14 to 18 March 2025 in Hamburg, Germany. Matthias Balz has been instrumental in shaping the successful development of INTERNORGA – the leading international trade fair …

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Elmhurst 1925 oat barista

© Elmhurst 1925

Los Angeles Coffee Chain Go Get Em Tiger Switches to Elmhurst’s Seed Oil-Free Oat Milk

Los Angeles-based coffee chain Go Get Em Tiger has announced a partnership with plant-based dairy producer Elmhurst 1925, making Elmhurst’s Oat Barista Edition the exclusive oat milk at all eight of its locations. With this shift, Go Get Em Tiger has completed its transition to offering only seed oil-free milk options. Elmhurst’s Oat Barista Edition is formulated without seed oils, gums, or emulsifiers, aligning with Go Get Em Tiger’s focus on simple and high-quality ingredients. The partnership reflects an increasing demand for plant-based alternatives in the coffee sector, particularly those without additives commonly found in conventional non-dairy milks. Yuri Polyachenko, senior director of food service at Elmhurst 1925, stated, “Today’s coffee lovers are paying closer attention to what’s in their cup, seeking high-quality plant milks …

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Odd Burger Vegan Fast Food

© Odd Burger

Odd Burger Sees Reduced Losses as Franchise Model Expands in Canada

Odd Burger Corporation has released its financial results for the first quarter of fiscal 2025, reporting revenue growth and a significant reduction in net loss compared to the previous quarter. Revenue for the quarter reached $727,294, marking a 6.2% increase from the prior quarter, while remaining largely unchanged from the same period last year. The company attributed the increase to its expanding franchise network and growing consumer-packaged goods (CPG) business. Net loss for the quarter was $272,476, a sharp decline from the $1.3 million loss reported in the previous quarter. The company also reported improved gross margins, citing its shift towards a franchise model as a contributing factor. Continued expansion across Canada Odd Burger currently operates 20 locations across Canada and continues to focus on …

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Actual Veggies

© Actual Veggies

Actual Veggies Secures $7M Investment To Scale Distribution and Foodservice Partnerships

Actual Veggies, a company specializing in vegetable-based burgers, has raised $7 million in a Series A funding round to support its retail expansion and product development. The round was led by Relentless Consumer Partners, with additional participation from New Fare Partners, Todd Lachman (Sovos Brands founder and Sauer Brands chairman), and investor Ben Rawitz. In addition to expanding its retail footprint, Actual Veggies has secured a foodservice contract with Compass Group, which will introduce its products to corporate dining programs, hospitals, and schools, including at companies such as Amazon and Google. The company’s Black Bean Burger is also set to launch in all 82 Costco locations in the Southeast region next month. Co-founder and co-CEO Hailey Swartz stated, “We set out to create the most …

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ProVeg International

Image: ProVeg International

How Food Delivery is Shaping the Plant-Based Industry

The food delivery boom is changing how consumers engage with food, and plant-based brands must adapt. With global delivery revenues estimated to reach USD 1.40 trillion by the end of 2025, convenience is now a key driver of food choices. The rise of plant-based meal kits and restaurant delivery services makes plant-based eating more accessible than ever. Tapping into the food delivery trend Meal kit providers like Planthood and Purple Carrot are thriving, while mainstream services such as Gousto and HelloFresh are expanding their plant-based options. Meanwhile, Deliveroo and UberEats report growing demand for plant-based meals, showing a shift in consumer habits. Brands like Planty and Grubby in the UK are capitalising on this, offering frozen and fresh plant-based meal deliveries. New data suggests that …

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Dunkin' Donuts

© Dunkin'

Dunkin’ Removes Surcharge on Vegan Milk Alternatives at US Locations

Dunkin’, the second-largest coffee chain in the United States, has eliminated the surcharge for plant-based milk at its more than 9,500 locations. This decision follows similar moves by Starbucks, Dutch Bros, and Scooter’s Coffee, marking a shift among major coffee chains toward more equitable pricing for non-dairy alternatives. The change comes after discussions with the advocacy group Mercy For Animals, which has campaigned against additional costs for plant-based milk. Advocacy groups argue that surcharges for dairy alternatives disproportionately impact people who are lactose intolerant. Mercy for Animals has noted that the extra cost makes non-dairy options more accessible to these consumers. Jennifer Behr, corporate relations manager at the organization, stated, “Mercy For Animals applauds Dunkin’ for this landmark decision. Plant-based milk upcharges create barriers for …

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Webtalk Recording: Foodservice – Gateway to Changing Consumer Habits

How is the foodservice industry driving plant-based adoption? In our latest webtalk, experts examined the sector’s critical role in reshaping consumer habits and advancing a more sustainable food system. Key challenges such as consumer preferences, premium pricing, and strategic pricing models—like Burger King’s decision to make plant-based options more affordable—were explored. Panelists also discussed what truly motivates flexitarian consumers, the significant volumes of animal protein still in demand, and how policymakers can be influenced to set reduction targets. The conversation highlighted the importance of giving consumers the freedom to choose, the power of effective promotion, and the vital role of chefs in accelerating plant-based innovation. Expert panel Watch the replay Explore the discussion in depth by viewing the entire session below. Monthly update by vegconomist …

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Brewdog

© Brewdog

BrewDog & Impossible Foods Bring Plant-Based “Chicken” Fillets to UK Pubs

BrewDog has launched a new plant-based menu in collaboration with Impossible Foods, Available from February 17 to March 31, the menu features a variety of plant-based dishes made with Impossible Foods’ latest product, the Impossible™ “Chicken” Fillet. The menu includes plant-based alternatives to traditional pub fare, such as cheeseburgers, tacos, and loaded fries, along with the Impossible “Chicken” Fillet. This product, designed to replicate the texture and taste of conventional chicken, follows the company’s previous plant-based chicken offerings. Impossible Foods states that the fillet is high in protein, contains zero milligrams of dietary cholesterol, and has a lower environmental impact than its animal-based counterpart. Noel Clarke, SVP of international at Impossible Foods, stated, “We make food for people who love meat, and our new ‘Chicken’ …

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MMarin Headshot

Meredith Marin, Co-founder of Vegan Hospitality © Vegan Hospitality

Vegan Hospitality: “Our Mission Is To Create Scalable Solutions That Make Vegan Dining Accessible and Desirable For All”

We sat down with Meredith Marin, Co-founder of Vegan Hospitality, to discuss the organization’s journey, impact, and future plans. In this insightful conversation, she shares how Vegan Hospitality has evolved over the past five years, why it recently transitioned into a non-profit, and how it is working with businesses worldwide to create a more vegan-friendly hospitality industry. Can you introduce Vegan Hospitality and share its core mission and values? Vegan Hospitality is a U.S. based nonprofit with global food systems impact. We represent the world’s largest network of professional vegan hospitality consultants. Our leadership team, along with our network of independent consultants, empowers businesses in the hospitality industry to implement strategies that reduce food-related emissions and increase inclusivity for vegan and plant-forward guests. Our mission is to create scalable solutions …

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Scooter's Coffee

© Scooter's Coffee

Scooter’s Coffee Drops Plant-Based Milk Upcharge at All Locations US-Wide

The US’s fourth-largest coffee chain, Scooter’s Coffee, has removed the upcharge for plant-based milk alternatives at its 800+ locations across 29 states. The change follows discussions with the corporate engagement team from animal protection organization Mercy for Animals, which urged Scooter’s Coffee to promote inclusivity by making plant-based options more accessible. Mercy for Animals notes that almost 90% of people from some areas of East Asia are lactose intolerant, along with 80% of Native Americans, 65% of Africans and African Americans, and 50% of Latin Americans. Milk alternatives also have a much lower environmental impact than cow’s milk, meaning that removing the upcharge has benefits for both human health and the environment. “We are thrilled that Scooter’s Coffee has listened to their customers and taken …

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