## Canadian Restaurants Fall Short on Plant-Based Options, Report Says
While consumer demand for plant-based options grows, most Canadian restaurant chains are lagging behind, according to a new report by World Animal Protection. ‘Moving the Menu 2024’ ranks 23 major restaurant chains based on their efforts to promote sustainable and humane plant-based eating.
The report paints a stark picture: Chipotle emerges as the top performer, earning a B grade, while major players like McDonald’s, Wendy’s, KFC, and Popeyes receive an F for their lack of commitment to plant-based menus.
Burger and Chicken Chains Face Criticism
While some burger chains like Burger King and Harvey’s received a C for offering options like the Impossible Whopper, A&W, despite its Beyond Meat burger, scored an F due to a lack of broader sustainability goals. The chicken sector fares even worse, with all major chains including KFC, Mary Brown’s, and Popeyes failing to make significant investments in plant-based alternatives.
Coffee Shops Show Modest Progress
Starbucks and Tim Hortons, although showing progress with a C grade, still face criticism for charging extra for plant-based milk alternatives. Second Cup and Coffee Time received failing grades.
A Call to Action for the Industry
The report emphasizes that the restaurant industry must innovate to meet the growing demand for compassionate, eco-friendly choices. Animal agriculture is a major contributor to climate change, accounting for nearly 15% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Reducing reliance on animal products is critical to achieving climate targets and building a more sustainable food system.
To align with climate goals and consumer preferences, the report calls on restaurants to:
* 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.
A Greener, More Compassionate Future
With the plant-based sector projected to reach USD 22.3 billion globally by 2029, Canadian restaurants have a unique opportunity to become leaders in sustainability. It’s time for the industry to step up and embrace a greener, more compassionate future by moving the menu toward plant-based options.
Key Findings
* Most Canadian restaurant chains are failing to commit to meat reduction, earning an ‘F’ for their lack of action in expanding plant-based options despite successful trials.
* Animal agriculture is the most emission-intensive sector in Canada, with meat consumption a significant driver of climate change.
* Reducing animal product consumption by 50% by 2030 would lower emissions significantly.
* Over half of Canadian consumers say they would reconsider dining at a restaurant that doesn’t offer vegetarian or vegan options.
About World Animal Protection
World Animal Protection is a global animal welfare charity working to protect animals from cruelty through practical, evidenced-based, and sustainable solutions. With offices in 12 countries, including Canada, World Animal Protection advocates for a more humane and sustainable world for both animals and people.
