Despite the growth in the number of vegans and vegan options over the past decade, vegans continue to face challenges accessing healthy, nutritious food, with public sector menus frequently failing to consistently include a single vegan option.

Transitioning away from animal agriculture is essential in the fight against climate change. The National Food Strategy has recommended that local authorities act to promote sustainable diets in order to reduce emissions in response to the climate crisis. Moving away from animal products is an essential step in achieving this, with plant-based diets producing just one quarter of the emissions compared to one that includes meat.  

Additionally, in the UK, veganism is recognised as a protected belief and public sector bodies have a legal responsibility to provide adequate options for those who choose to live a vegan lifestyle.  

Providing plant-based options on every daily menu throughout public services – without the need to make a special request – would both protect the rights of vegans and recognise the benefits of plant-based food for our health, the environment and animals. 

We are calling on the Governments to bring forward legislation to guarantee a vegan option on every menu throughout the UK – as well as for local authorities to lead the way in their own area.