Los Angeles: Latest Plant-based and Cellular Agriculture Market News from Los Angeles on vegconomist

Sustainable Fashion Leaders Gather in LA at Ethical Luxury Summit and Fashion Show

March 10, 2025March 10, 2025

The Ethical Luxury Summit and the 6th Annual Vegan Fashion Week Golden Hour Fashion Show will take place this week in Los Angeles, bringing together industry leaders to discuss sustainability, ethics, and innovation in high-end fashion. The events will feature panel discussions, designer showcases, and a fundraising gala, with a focus on sustainable materials, ethical production, and alternative textiles. Addressing ethics and sustainability in fashion According to Emmanuelle Rienda, founder & president of Vegan Fashion Week, the organisation’s mission is to address both ethical and environmental concerns within the fashion industry. “Vegan fashion is the idea of producing and consuming fashion without harming or using animals. Sadly, animals are still left out of the conversation when it comes to sustainability or the climate emergency,” Rienda …

Organisations and brands:

Vegan Fashion Week

Gastronomy & Food Service

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

March 6, 2025

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 …

Organisations and brands:

Elmhurst 1925

Charity & Campaigns

Chunk Foods Donates Thousands of Plant-Based Steaks to Support Fire-Affected Communities in Los Angeles

January 22, 2025

Chunk Foods, a producer specializing in plant-based whole-cut products, has donated thousands of plant-based steaks to nonprofit organizations in Los Angeles. The donation is intended to support first responders and residents affected by the recent Palisades Fire and Eaton Fire in the Los Angeles and Pasadena areas. The contribution enables local nonprofit organizations to provide high-protein, ketogenic-certified, and clean-label meals to those impacted by the fires. The meals are aimed at addressing the nutritional needs of both emergency responders and displaced community members. “This donation is more than just food. It’s about nourishing the body and soul during a time of crisis. We’re deeply moved by the bravery of first responders and the resilience of those impacted by these fires. This includes many restaurants and …

Organisations and brands:

chunk foods

Society

LA County Expands Plant-Based Food Procurement to Cut Emissions

January 8, 2025

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has just approved a motion to increase the procurement of plant-based foods across county departments, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote public health. The unanimous decision builds on legislation enacted in 2023 and introduces specific targets and measures for food programs at county facilities. Under the updated guidelines, county food services are encouraged to adopt a 2-to-1 ratio of plant-based to animal-based entrees. Additionally, all county food programs are required to provide a daily vegan meal option and plant-based dairy alternatives. Local sourcing will also be prioritized to support regional growers and reduce supply chain emissions. “As our region’s largest employer, we have a responsibility to ensure county facilities have a positive environmental impact,” said Supervisor …

Retail & E-Commerce

Chunk Foods Arrives in US Retail for 1st Time, Sets Prices Similar to Animal-Based Counterparts

October 28, 2024October 25, 2024

Chunk Foods, a producer of plant-based whole cuts, has officially announced its entry into retail with four new products, marking its first direct-to-consumer availability. Until now, Chunk Foods products were available only through foodservice partnerships, including venues such as Jajaja Mexicana and Pastrami Queen in New York City, and a recent co-branded partnership with Better Balance in Latin America and Spain. The new retail products will be introduced in independent natural and organic retailers across Los Angeles and New York City in the coming weeks. The company has also hinted at further growth in 2025, with plans to partner with larger retailers to reach a wider US audience. Chunk Foods’ CEO and founder, Amos Golan, stated, “Our retail strategy is focused on a phased approach. …

Organisations and brands:

chunk foods

Courtney and Zan © Urban Dessert Lab

Sweets & Snacks

“World’s First Oat-Milk Ice Crème Shoppe,” Urban Dessert Lab, Debuts New Plant-Based Desserts

July 26, 2024

Urban Dessert Lab (UDL), the “World’s First Oat-Milk Ice Crème™ Shoppe,” has announced the expansion of its dessert menu with the introduction of several new plant-based desserts. The shop, owned by sisters Courtney Blagrove and Zan B.R., has gained recognition for its unique dessert offerings and was recently named one of ESPN’s Champion Black Businesses for 2024. The first UDL location opened in New York City’s Lower East Side in 2020. The shop quickly garnered attention from food enthusiasts and celebrities, leading to high demand for additional locations. Responding to customer requests, the founders chose West Hollywood, Los Angeles, for their second establishment, which opened in February of this year. New summer menu UDL’s new summer menu includes a variety of plant-based, gluten-free, nut-free, dairy-free, …

Organisations and brands:

Urban Dessert Lab

Yoga-urt specializes soft serve made from hand-squeezed almonds and cashews, and infused with probiotics

Sweets & Snacks

LA’s Vegan Soft-Serve Ice Cream ‘Yoga-urt’ Arrives to Granada Hills With First Franchise

July 25, 2024

Los Angeles’ first all-organic and vegan soft-serve frozen yogurt shop, Yoga-urt, announces the launch of its first franchise location in Granada Hills, in the MODERNO La Granada complex on Chatsworth Street. With locations in Glendale, Echo Park, and Santa Monica, this marks the brand’s fourth storefront overall. The Granada Hills shop, led by entrepreneurs Andrea Castillo, Jonathan Quiros, and Diego Castillo, will offer Yoga-urt’s signature made-from-scratch, 100% dairy-free yogurt featuring six rotating “creamy and vibrant flavors.” Yoga-urt’s signature heart mural, painted by Cloe Hakakian, adorns the shop. The grand opening is scheduled for Saturday, August 3, where Yoga-urt Granada Hills will offer special promotions, including free minis with one topping to the first 50 visitors and two dollars off all birthday cake shakes to welcome area …

Organisations and brands:

Yoga-urt

Society

West Hollywood Implements Plant-Based Default for City Events

June 26, 2024

The City of West Hollywood has passed a new resolution requiring that plant-based food and beverages be served by default at city-sponsored events and meetings. The policy allows for the availability of animal products only upon request. Vice Mayor Chelsea Lee Byers spearheaded the initiative, which aims to promote sustainable and compassionate food choices while addressing environmental concerns. The West Hollywood City Council’s decision was influenced by the perceived harmful environmental impacts of the factory farming industry. Mercy For Animals, an advocacy group that collaborated closely with the city on this policy, praised the decision. “Mercy For Animals calls for a shift to a plant-based food system, so we greatly appreciate Vice Mayor Byers for championing this policy change in West Hollywood,” commented Leah Garcés, …

Fairs & Events

Empowering Women in Veganism: Inside the Vegan Women Summit 2024

May 16, 2024May 16, 2024

The Vegan Women Summit 2024 took place at the Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood, California, on May 9 and 10, drawing nearly 1,000 attendees from six continents. With over 100 speakers and brands, the summit celebrated the contributions of women in the vegan industry, including the fields of food, fashion, beauty, and sustainability. The summit began with a pre-party gala where celebrities such as Moby, Red Foo, Nika King, Sharon Carpenter, and Aubrey K. Miller were in attendance on the red carpet. Founder Jennifer (Jenny) Stojkovic welcomed the over 300 guests to the summit, where guests had the opportunity to sample Climax Foods blue and brie cheeses, along with catering by Ma-Kin Sushi, 2foods USA, and La Crepe Du Jardin. Keynote speech by Ethan …

Organisations and brands:

Vegan Women Summit

Marketing & Media

Eat Differently Launches Huge Billboard Campaign Across LA Exposing Falsehoods Peddled by Dairy Industry

March 8, 2024

A new campaign by Eat Differently, a public service resource encouraging plant-based eating, is challenging long-held consumer beliefs about the dairy industry. Titled “Got My Mom’s Milk? I Didn’t,” the campaign seeks to expose the often glossed-over realities of dairy cows and their calves and foster a broader understanding of dairy production practices. With over 20 billboards strategically placed in key locations around Los Angeles, including the highly trafficked 405 Freeway, the Hollywood and Highland intersection, and near the Los Angeles International Airport, the campaign is anticipated to have high visibility. Lori Amos, founder of Scout 22, an advertising agency working with Eat Differently, articulated the campaign’s core message: “The messaging featured in this campaign negates the falsehoods that have been peddled by the dairy …

Politics & Law

Los Angeles County Implements Plant-Based Food Policy to Tackle Environmental and Health Concerns

February 28, 2024

Los Angeles County has enacted a new plant-based policy addressing environmental, public health, and animal welfare concerns. The legislation, initiated by supervisors Lindsey Horvath and Hilda L. Solis, mandates a comprehensive shift towards plant-based food in the county’s food service provider contracts. Mercy For Animals worked closely with Horvath’s office to develop the policy, which encompasses Health Services, Parks and Recreation, and Public Works departments and includes updates to nutritional standards, recommendations for plant-based procurement, and tracking greenhouse gas emissions. Leah Garces, president at Mercy for Animals, announced the development on social media: “We at MFA call for enactment and enforcement of animal protection laws and a shift to a plant-based food system. As more Americans choose plant-based food for health, environmental protection, and animal …

Organisations and brands:

Mercy For Animals

Fairs & Events

The Vegan Women Summit Returns to Hollywood Showcasing Female Leadership in Vegan Business

February 20, 2024

The Vegan Women Summit (VWS) is returning for its 4th year, scheduled for May 9 and 10, 2024, at the Pacific Design Center in Hollywood. The summit is a global event that brings together women leaders in vegan business, featuring speakers, panels, and networking opportunities with potential partners, mentors, and investors. VWS has released an impressive roster of celebrity speakers for this year’s event, which includes actress Richa Moorjani, philanthropist Maggie Baird (mother of musician Billie Eilish), model and reality TV star Jayde Nicole and Heather Mills, a Paralympian and the owner of VBites. Mills is poised to share the inspiring journey of VBites, which she recently reacquired after the company entered administration at the end of last year. Joanne Molinaro, The Korean Vegan, and …

Organisations and brands:

Vegan Women Summit

Image: @billieeilish on Instagram

Food Service

Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell Set to Open Vegan Italian Eatery, Argento, in LA

November 23, 2023

In a collaboration with plant-based restaurateur Nic Adler, global pop star Billie Eilish and her brother Finneas O’Connell are set to debut Argento, a vegan Italian restaurant in the heart of Silver Lake, Los Angeles. Scheduled to open its doors next month, Argento takes over the space once occupied by Little Pine, a vegan eatery established in 2015 by vegan musician Moby. Adler, known for expanding the local plant-based scene in LA with establishments like Monty’s Good Burgers and Nic’s On Beverly, aims to infuse Argento with a neighborhood restaurant ambiance. The revamp of the space includes a VIP chef’s table and an expanded outdoor patio. Argento’s menu promises a departure from processed alternative meat items, opting instead to celebrate whole, plant-based foods. Adler emphasizes …

Politics & Law

LA Student Wins Legal Battle for Plant-Based Options, Soy Milk Now Available on Request

November 21, 2023

The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) recently concluded a legal settlement with Marielle Williamson, a 2023 graduate of Eagle Rock High School, in collaboration with the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. The lawsuit, which ruled in favor of Williamson, involved the promotion of plant-based milk within the educational system, pushing back on dairy as the default beverage option. The lawsuit began when Williamson was prohibited from distributing literature critiquing cow’s milk in her school, citing its impact on human health, animal welfare, and the environment. This incident prompted a broader conversation about the role of dairy products in American schools and the current federal laws regarding its compulsory inclusion in the National School Lunch Program. Filed in a federal court in Los Angeles, the …

Products & Launches

Comedian Tim Robinson and Plant Power Fast Food Team Up to Launch Plant-Based Coney Dog

October 18, 2023

Plant-based fast food chain Plant Power Fast Food introduces a vegan version of the Coney hot dog in collaboration with comedian and actor Tim Robinson. The Coney dog, a Midwest favorite, is traditionally topped with a meaty chili sauce, mustard, and finely chopped white onions. Although it’s often associated with Coney Island in New York, the popular dish originated in Michigan, making the partnership especially close to Tim’s heart as a Midwesterner. Plant Power Fast Food is not just launching a plant-based Coney dog but is also offering limited-edition “Coney Club” hats and t-shirts showcasing the collaboration, which are available for purchase online. Proceeds from the sales of the Coney dog and exclusive merchandise will be channeled toward the non-profit organization, Youth Climate Save, which …

Organisations and brands:

Plant Power Fast Food

Egg Alternatives

Yo Egg to Debut Mini Plant-Based Sunny-Side-Up Eggs at Vkind Experience in LA

September 29, 2023

Vegan platform Vkind announces that the Israeli startup Yo Egg will debut mini plant-based sunny-side-up eggs at its forthcoming multicultural food event, the Vkind Experience (VKX). Yo Egg, also based in Southern California, developed the mini-eggs, especially for VKX. The new product will be featured in a custom dish curated by celebrity chef Chris Tucker for the event’s Asian room. According to Vkind, VKX is a comprehensive plant-based food experience that will immerse participants in a multi-sensory world, offering a tour through eleven themed rooms covering 35,000 square feet at Magic Box in Los Angeles. The event is scheduled for the 11th and 12th of November, 2023. This event follows Vkind’s successful vegan cooking competition show Peeled, sponsored by VFC, the famous UK vegan fried …

Organisations and brands:

Vkind

BioVenture Nexus 2023, the premier event exploring innovation and networking in the fields of synthetic biology, bioprocessing, biotech, food tech, and AI.

Cultivated, Cell-Cultured & Biotechnology

Industry Leaders, Visionary Entrepreneurs, Investors & Scientists to Speak on Biotech, Food Tech, and AI at BioVenture Nexus 2023

August 30, 2023

BioVenture Nexus 2023, the premier event exploring innovation and networking in the fields of synthetic biology, bioprocessing, biotech, food tech, and AI, is set to take place on the 5th and 6th of October at the JW Marriott Ritz-Carlton in Los Angeles, California. The event, organized by conference organizer Rare and Infinite, aims to connect industry leaders, visionary startups, leading investors, and scientists reshaping food, ingredients, materials, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, therapies, and beyond using new technologies. Gabriel Levesque-Tremblay, co-founder of US-cultivated meat company Orbillion, is on the organizing committee. According to Levesque, the conference, organized and focused on serving the community, has kept prices at a minimum to ensure people can access this unique event. The conference At BioVenture Nexus 2023, attendees can engage in dynamic discussions, gain valuable …

Organisations and brands:

BioVenture Nexus

Food Service

Chefs With Celebrity Fans Including Zooey Deschanel Open Plant-Based Restaurant in LA

August 11, 2023

Sisters Jenny Engel and Heather Golden Ray have opened a fully plant-based fast-casual restaurant called Hey, Sunshine Kitchen in Culver City, Los Angeles County. Engel and Ray are trained chefs and cookbook authors with over 23 years of experience, who count celebrities such as Zooey Deschanel among their fans. They are the entrepreneurs behind vegan food company and cooking school Spork Foods, which they have run for over 15 years. With Hey, Sunshine Kitchen, the sisters aim to “revolutionize the plant-based food industry and transform the future of fast-casual restaurants”. The menu features a range of bowls, salads, tacos, sandwiches, kids’ meals, and desserts, including: Mediterranean Chickpea Bowl Backyard BBQ Tofu Salad Avocado Crunch Bowl Baja “Fish” Taco Kids’ mac & cheese and chickpea nuggets …

Organisations and brands:

Hey Sunshine Kitchen

Hart House opens fourth location at USC campus

Kevin Hart’s fourth location in less than a year @ Hart House

Fast Food

Hart House Opens Fourth Location in Less Than a Year at USC Campus

June 22, 2023June 22, 2023

Plant-based fast food chain Hart House opened yesterday its newest and fourth location across from the University of Southern California (USC) campus in Downtown Los Angeles. Hart House’s new strategic location — the chain’s first restaurant near a University — aims to make sustainable and plant-forward food accessible to students, teachers, and the whole community that revolves around the university. “I am very excited that we are opening our fourth Hart House at USC. College students are always looking for easy and delicious meals and Hart House satisfies both of those wants,” commented Kevin Hart. Hart House at USC Since comedian Kevin Hart launched his all-vegan concept in August 2022 to compete with fast food giants like McDonald’s and Burger King, the brand has expanded its …

Organisations and brands:

Hart House

Image credit: Evan Robinson

Gastronomy & Food Service

New Culture’s “Groundbreaking” Animal-Free Mozzarella Makes World Debut in Los Angeles

June 10, 2023June 9, 2023

New Culture’s animal-free mozzarella made its world debut yesterday, where leading chefs, culinary influencers and media gathered at the acclaimed Pizzeria Mozza in Los Angeles to taste the revolutionary cheese. Hosted by award-winning chef Nancy Silverton, the event gave guests a first chance to experience New Culture’s “first-of-its-kind” mozzarella, made from precision fermentation instead of cows. Silverton and her team designed and prepared a four-course meal to showcase the versatility of New Culture’s cheese. The menu included arancini, eggplant parmesan, and speciality pizzas that featured the mozzarella chunked, shredded, sliced and baked. Major milestone According to New Culture, the event marked an important milestone as the company prepares for its official launch at Pizzeria Mozza in 2024. “The evening was an incredible debut for our …

Organisations and brands:

New Culture

Pizzeria Mozza

The vegconomist-newsletterinformation for decision-makers

The vegconomist-newsletter
information for decision-makers