Student nutrition directors like Primer say the foundation that allows schools to experiment with new recipes is California’s universal free lunch program. She notes that when school lunch is free, students are more likely to actually try it and enjoy it: “Free food plus good food each time equals an increase in meal participation.”
Nora Stewart, author of the Friends of the Earth report, says the recent rise in vegan school lunch options has also been a response to a growing demand for less meat and dairy in cafeterias from climate-conscious students. “We’re seeing a lot of interest from students and parents in having more plant-based (meals) as a way to really help curb greenhouse gas emissions,” she said. The majority of Gen Zers (79 percent) say they would eat meatless at least once or twice a week, according to research by Aramark, a company that provides food services to school districts and universities, among others. customers. And the food service company that recently introduced an all-vegetarian menu in the San Francisco Unified School District credits students with having “paved the way” by ordering less meat in their cafeterias. The menu includes four vegan options: an edamame teriyaki bowl, a bean burrito bowl, a taco with a pea-based meat alternative, and marinara pasta.
Stewart theorizes that school nutrition directors are also increasingly aware of other benefits of serving vegan meals. “Many school districts are recognizing that they can integrate more culturally diverse options with more plant-based meals,” Stewart said. Over the past five years, the nonprofit found, California school districts have added 41 new vegan dishes to their menus, including chana masala bowls, vegan tamales, and falafel wraps. Dairy-free meals also benefit lactose intolerant students. who are more likely to be students of color.
Still, vegan meals are not the default option in California cafes and, in many places, are unheard of. Of the state’s 25 largest school districts, only three elementary districts offer daily vegan options, the same number as in 2019. According to Friends of the Earth, a quarter of the California school districts they reviewed do not offer plant-based meals . options; In another room, the only vegan option for students is a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. “I was surprised to see that,” Stewart said.