Online Petition Urging McDonald's To Offer Meatless Burger Nears 200,000 Signatures

An online petition is calling for McDonald’s to add a plant-based protein option to its menu, according to a recent article on The Takeout. With a goal of 200,000 signatures, the Change.org petition started by wellness author Kathy Freston is gaining traction as it applies digital democratic pressure to the franchise.

The petition’s popularity comes at an interesting time, as McDonald’s is currently one of the last major chains to hold out on a meatless burger—and astute advocates will notice that some of the petition’s comments are marked five years ago, meaning the call for alternative options is actually no new trend. 

Earth- and health-friendly practices have been at the forefront of McDonald’s initiatives of late. The brand pledged to eliminate all artificial colors, flavors and preservatives from its classic burgers last year, and the company has made strides in its commitment to source 100% cage-free eggs by 2025.

The Takeout notes that McDonald’s current lack of meatless burger is especially puzzling as Don Thompson, the franchise’s former CEO, sits on the board of Beyond Meat—so it’s probably not going to be long until forces collide to make the petition’s demands a reality.

Read the full article here.