A new report from World Animal Protection, titled Moving the Menu 2024, has found that most major Canadian restaurant chains are failing to offer adequate plant-based options. Additionally, none have set firm commitments to reduce meat consumption.
Of the 23 chains ranked in the report, Chipotle came out on top with a B grade, based on its extensive plant-based options and policies promoting the benefits of plant-based eating. Some coffee chains, such as Starbucks and Tim Hortons, received a C but did not rank higher because they charge extra for plant-based milk. Fast food chains McDonald’s, Wendy’s, KFC, and Popeyes all received an F, the lowest possible grade.
“It’s time for the food industry to take responsibility”
The report notes that while chains such as McDonald’s, A&W, and Tim Hortons have all trialed plant-based options, they have not successfully communicated the benefits to consumers or maintained these options long-term. To meet climate goals and growing consumer demand, the report’s authors are calling on restaurants to make five changes:
- Position plant-based proteins as integral to sustainability strategies and animal welfare goals.
- Increase and promote plant-based menu options by default.
- Commit to reducing animal products by 25% by 2030.
- Report progress annually on sustainability commitments.
- Explore emerging innovations such as fermentation-based and cell-cultivated proteins.
“Bold, decisive action”
A study conducted by Beyond Meat earlier this year found that while 67% of Canadians would consider reducing their red meat consumption, a third of these are skeptical about plant-based meat and do not think it tastes good. This indicates the importance of improving plant-based offerings at restaurants.
Survey results published by Sodexo Canada in January reflected a similar theme; 74% of respondents said they were unwilling to completely give up meat, but 46% were interested in replacing some of the animal proteins they eat with plant proteins. This suggests that meat-free products should be marketed toward flexitarians as well as vegetarians and vegans.
“The future of our planet depends on bold, decisive action to reduce our reliance on animal products,” said Lynn Kavanagh, Farming Campaign Manager at World Animal Protection Canada. “By embracing plant-based options, we not only spare millions of animals from suffering, but also create a healthier, more sustainable world. It’s time for the food industry to take responsibility and make plant-based eating the new norm for the sake of animals, people, and the planet.”
