California Schools See Surge in Vegan Meal Offerings in Cafeterias inspired by Plant-Based Diets

Experts attribute this growth not only to the rising popularity of plant-based diets among students and their families.Photo byNadine PrimeauonUnsplash

A recent report reveals a dramatic increase in the number of schools across California providing vegan meal options, reflecting both student and parent demand as well as supportive state programs. According to the environmental nonprofit Friends of the Earth, over half (56 percent) of middle and high schools in California's 25 largest school districts now feature daily vegan options on their menus, up from 36 percent in 2019. Additionally, the percentage of elementary districts offering weekly vegan meals has skyrocketed from 16 percent to 60 percent over the same period.

Experts attribute this growth not only to the rising popularity of plant-based diets among students and their families but also to several state initiatives aimed at improving access to local produce and enhancing the capacity of school districts to prepare fresh, plant-based meals on-site.