KANSAS CITY — Restaurants are expanding plant-based options as consumers seek more alternatives to meat and dairy products. Coconut milk is featured in a new beverage at Starbucks and a limited-time flavor at frozen yogurt chain Yogurtland. The beef substitutes produced by Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods also are included in new dishes at restaurant chains.
Following a successful test, Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc., Canton, Mass., is adding a new non-dairy offering to its Dunkin’ US menu nationwide. Planet Oat Oatmilk may be added to any of the chain’s hot, iced and frozen coffee, espresso drinks and specialty beverages and has a creamy texture and light sweetness, according to the company.
“Dunkin’ is proud to stand apart as the brand that democratizes trends and finds new and innovative ways to keep Americans running,” said Jill Nelson, vice president of marketing strategy at Dunkin'. “Bringing Planet Oat Oatmilk to Dunkin' locations across the country is another way we are reinforcing our commitment to providing guests with more choices to customize their favorite coffee and espresso drinks.”
Veggie Grill, a regional restaurant chain with 37 locations, has rolled out a new menu of plant-based salads, sandwiches, burgers and bowls.
“Our passion is to help people begin, advance and embrace their conscious food journey, and empower them to make the world better one plant-based meal at a time,” said T.K. Pillan, founder and executive chairman of Los Angeles-based Veggie Grill. “Veggie Grill strives to deliver the best the plant-based world has to offer in familiar and accessible menu items. Food can help us heal the planet while also leading to a healthier and kinder future. There has never been a better or more important time to lean into plant-based eating.”
