Panera Introduces More Plant-Based Options

Popular fast-casual chain Panera Bread is jumping on the plant-based bandwagon. The eatery, known for its healthier alternatives to typical fast food, announced that it’s rolling out more veg-friendly options, in addition to committing to adopting animal welfare initiatives such as switching to cage-free eggs by 2020.

“We know that guests are increasingly seeking plant-based proteins for personal health reasons and/or to reduce their environmental impact,” said Sara Burnett, director of wellness and food policy at Panera, in a press release. “To that end, we have been adding plant-based proteins like edamame and organic quinoa to our pantry of ingredients.”

The company’s commitment to cage-free eggs is in line with its long-term efforts to improve animal welfare, Panera’s Founder and CEO, Ron Shiach, told FoxBusiness.com. “For more than a decade, we’ve been working to reduce antibiotic use and confinement across our supply chain,” he said.

These menu changes are the latest in a series of similar moves by mainstream chains. Animal Outlook has encouraged major brands and restaurants to reduce or eliminate animal ingredients for years, and one by one, they’re getting on board.

As a result of one of our campaigns, more than 1,000 Subways now offer vegan options, including the Black Bean and Malibu Garden subs. Also notable in recent months, White Castle added a veggie burger to its menu, Chipotle introduced vegan sofritas, Wendy’s launched a black bean burger, and Taco Bell now has a vegetarian-certified menu with 26 vegan ingredient options.

And, in response to a campaign by Animal Outlook and Jane Velez-Mitchell, Starbucks confirmed that it’s working on testing several vegan food options.

With major companies and restaurants getting on board, eating veg is easier than ever.