Food Service

GAIL's drops soy milk surcharge

© GAIL's

GAIL’s Drops Soy Milk Surcharge Following PETA Campaign

UK bakery chain GAIL’s has announced it will drop its surcharge on soy milk, just weeks after PETA launched a national campaign urging it to make the change. Over 12,000 people have reportedly written to GAIL’s to request the end of the upcharge; in response, the chain confirmed it will stop charging for soy milk from May 21, though customers who choose oat milk will still have to pay extra. PETA says it will continue to urge GAIL’s and other chains to stop charging for all milk alternatives. Companies such as Starbucks, Pret A Manger, and Patisserie Valerie have already removed all their plant-based milk surcharges, while some others, including Café Nero and Costa, offer at least one milk alternative that does not cost extra. …

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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 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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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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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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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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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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Stockeld Dreamery PLNT burger

© Stockeld Dreamery

Stockeld Dreamery Partners with PLNT Burger to Introduce Cultured Cheddar Across 13 Locations

Stockholm-based Stockeld Dreamery has announced a partnership with PLNT Burger, a plant-based burger chain with 13 locations across New York City, Massachusetts, Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Maryland. The collaboration introduces Stockeld’s Cultured Cheddar as the flagship cheese for PLNT Burger’s menu, a deal that has been in development for 18 months. The partnership has been facilitated through Stockeld’s distribution arrangement with Sysco. The move is part of Stockeld Dreamery’s ongoing efforts to establish a stronger presence in the US foodservice sector, particularly in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. In a LinkedIn post, Sorosh Tavakoli, CEO of Stockeld Dreamery, outlined three key reasons for the collaboration. These include the alignment of both companies’ regional focus, shared emphasis on high-quality food, and PLNT Burger’s recent profitability and …

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Vietnamese Salad with Beyond Steak

© Beyond Meat

Beyond Meat Introduces Beyond Steak to French Food Service Sector

Beyond Meat has announced the launch of its plant-based Beyond Steak in France, marking the product’s first entry into the French food service market. Starting in February 2025, the offering will be available to restaurants nationwide, aiming to provide a versatile option for those seeking plant-based menu additions. The Beyond Steak pieces, crafted from plant-based ingredients such as fava beans and wheat, are designed to replicate the taste and texture of conventional steak. Each 100g portion delivers 24g of protein and contains 182 calories, with only 1g of saturated fat and no cholesterol. The company also released a life cycle assessment (LCA) study of its Beyond Steak earlier this month, which found that the product generates 84% less greenhouse gas emissions and requires 93% less …

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Session 9 of the ‘update’ Webtalk Series: Foodservice – Gateway to Changing Consumer Habits

The international business webtalk series ‘update’ discusses the most pressing issues of the ongoing protein transition. Based on the latest news, data, and facts, the future of the industry will be put forward and discussed with key market players in this series of talks. Foodservice – Gateway to Changing Consumer Habits February 20th, 10:30 AM CT (CHICAGO) | 5:30 PM CET (BERLIN) | 4:30 PM GMT (LONDON) >> Register now! The foodservice sector holds immense potential as a gateway to driving the global transition toward a more sustainable and plant-based food system. As a critical player in shaping consumer habits and preferences, the industry has the power to transform the game—but how is it leveraging this influence? What strategies are currently being deployed by key players? Where are …

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Miyoko's x DoubleDave's

© Miyoko’s Creamery

Pourable Plant Milk Mozzarella from Miyoko’s Now Available at DoubleDave’s Pizzaworks

Miyoko’s Creamery, a producer of plant-based dairy alternatives, has announced a partnership with DoubleDave’s Pizzaworks, a regional pizza chain in the US with locations in Texas and Oklahoma. The collaboration introduces Miyoko’s Pourable Plant Milk Mozzarella as a dairy-free option for customers to add or substitute on any menu item. DoubleDave’s Pizzaworks, known for its menu items such as Peproni Rolls® and Philly Cheesesteak Stromboli, views the partnership as an opportunity to expand its offerings to include more inclusive options. Marc Asmussen, director of sales, food service at Miyoko’s Creamery, commented on the partnership: “This collaboration marks a significant step in making delicious, sustainable, and accessible dairy-free options available to even more pizza fans. Because we believe that great food should not only taste amazing …

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Mexico vegan

© nik0.0kin - stock.adobe.com

Latin America Sees a 21.6% Increase in Vegan-Friendly Restaurants

Veganuary has partnered with vegan food discovery platform HappyCow to launch its third-ever rankings of the Latin American countries and cities with the most vegan restaurant options. The study reveals that there are now over 10,000 vegan, vegetarian, and vegan-friendly restaurants in Latin America, up by more than 1,700 compared to 2023. This represents an increase of 21.6%. Rankings by country Brazil takes the top spot in the country rankings with 2,953 vegan-friendly restaurants. Mexico has only 33 fewer, and also has the highest number of fully vegan restaurants. Colombia is in third place, followed by Chile. The latter has seen a huge 27.7% increase in vegan-friendly restaurants, with almost 200 new options added last year. Argentina, Peru, Ecuador, Uruguay, Bolivia, and Paraguay make up …

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TiNDLE PLNT burger collaboration

© TiNDLE

TiNDLE Foods Partners with PLNT Burger to Feature Plant-Based Chicken on East Coast Menus

TiNDLE Foods has announced a partnership with PLNT Burger, an all-vegan burger chain co-founded by chef Spike Mendelsohn and entrepreneur Seth Goldman, to feature TiNDLE’s plant-based chicken in key menu offerings. Starting this January, TiNDLE Chicken will be the primary plant-based chicken used in the Crispy Chik’n Sandwich and Spicy Chik’n Sandwich across all 13 PLNT Burger locations on the East Coast of the United States. Spike Mendelsohn, PLNT Burger’s co-founder and culinary director, told vegconomist, “Our new Tindle fried chicken sandwich is absolutely delicious and nutritious! Working with the Tindle team has been nothing short of amazing, as they truly understand what the consumer is looking for out of plant-based products.” TiNDLE Foods, which launched its plant-based chicken products in US retail in late …

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