Xanterra Travel Collection, the primary foodservice provider for several of the United States’ most visited national parks, has announced a commitment to make 50% of its menu offerings plant-based by the end of 2026. This new policy, which includes popular destinations such as the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Death Valley, Mount Rushmore, and Rocky Mountain National Park, is the first time the company has set a measurable target for plant-based options at its locations.
Transforming national park dining
Each year, Xanterra serves over 3 million meals to park visitors, making the shift to plant-based foods one of the largest initiatives in the public-facing travel and hospitality sector. The company’s decision comes as some of the most iconic natural landmarks in the US have also begun offering more plant-based, whole foods.
Jennifer Behr, Director of Corporate Engagement at Mercy For Animals, expressed her support for Xanterra’s commitment. “Xanterra Travel Collection’s pledge to increase plant-based menu options at some of the nation’s most famous national parks represents a significant move toward more humane and sustainable food practices. Making vegan food options more accessible to millions of park visitors shows that it is possible to align the interests of animals, people, and the environment,” she said.
Supporting preferences, protecting nature
By expanding the availability of plant-based meals, Xanterra seeks to cater to the diverse dietary preferences of its visitors while advancing broader environmental objectives, particularly in a sector that depends on the preservation of natural ecosystems.
Animal agriculture is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, with factory farming responsible for about 14.5% of global emissions. Additionally, producing a pound of beef requires approximately 1,800 gallons of water, while producing the same amount of tofu uses only 300 gallons. By transitioning to plant-based options, Xanterra is looking to reduce the environmental impact of its foodservice operations.
Mercy For Animals, a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending factory farming, has been working closely with Xanterra to help the company implement its plant-based menu changes. Behr further noted, “We are excited to continue supporting Xanterra in this process and encourage other foodservice providers to follow suit in adopting similar sustainable and humane practices.”
