The HSUS has been working with Sodexo for more than 15 years to foster a more humane supply chain by developing responsible sourcing strategies.
According to the recent Innova Health & Nutrition Survey, 23% of 18-to-25-year-olds Americans adhere to either a vegetarian or vegan diet, with nearly a third of youth increasing their consumption of plant-based proteins in 2021 alone. To meet this demand, Sodexo Campus is aspiring to have 42% of their planned menu offerings being plant-based by 2025.
Students, staff and faculty at the 140 Sodexo universities that have implemented the plant-based programme have been invited to try each of the items and provide feedback.
Chef Jennifer DiFrancesco, director of culinary innovation for Sodexo Campus, commented: “It’s important for us to receive feedback directly from the customer as it helps us identify which plant-based dishes will become permanent fixtures on our menus.”
Sodexo’s internal analysis has shown that at least 70% of their U.S. supply carbon footprint was related to animal-based food purchases in fiscal year 2020. Production of plant-based foods emits ‘significantly’ less greenhouse gasses and requires less water and land when compared to animal-based foods.
Karla Dumas, RDN, director of food service innovation for HSUS, added: “Any sustainability plan that’s meant to create real change—and not just be greenwashing jargon—will centre on shifting from a meat-heavy menu to one that’s focused on plant-based entrées.
“I’m thankful to Sodexo for being a leader in the industry by committing to the tangible changes required to meet greenhouse gas emission goals. By developing a plant-based initiative that includes menu goals, recipe innovation and customer satisfaction, Sodexo has found a formula for success.”
Sodexo is committed to serving plant-based meals wherever and whenever possible in an effort to reduce the impacts of climate change. The ongoing collaboration with the HSUS continues to be integral in fulfilling these plant-based commitments.
Public Sector Catering will be hosting their second Plant-based Week (9-13 May) to inspire caterers across the sector to introduce more plant-based foods into their menus.