Veggie Burger Nation
10 days ago
- #fast-food-trends
- #vegetarian-food
- #cultural-diversity
- McDonald's introduces the McVeggie, a plant-based burger with a fried patty made of vegetables like zucchini, peas, and carrots.
- The McVeggie, already popular in India since 2012, resonates with the South Asian diaspora in Canada.
- Fast-food chains in Canada are pivoting to vegetarian options to attract Indian immigrants and challenge Western protein hierarchies.
- Faux-meat burgers like Beyond and Impossible initially failed due to low repeat customer rates and consumer preference for real beef.
- McDonald's Canada's PLT burger using Beyond Meat was discontinued after poor test results, leading to the development of the McVeggie.
- A&W's Masala Veggie Burger, inspired by South Asian flavors, sold out quickly in test runs and was added to the permanent menu.
- The burger features visible vegetable chunks, a vegan masala aioli, and red onions to appeal to South Asian dietary preferences.
- Indian migration to Canada has expanded vegetarian food options, influencing fast-food chains to diversify their menus.
- Vegetarians and vegans influence dining choices, leading chains to address the 'veto vote' by offering plant-based options.
- The shift reflects changing demographics and a demand for authentic, culturally diverse, and less processed foods.