McDonald’s Canada makes the McVeggie permanent: what does this mean for the future of food?

This plant-based option, featuring a veggie patty packed with carrots, zucchini, peas and corn - even a spicy habanero version - marks an important milestone in the shift toward more compassionate and sustainable food choices.

For many Canadians, this marks a long-awaited shift. The decision follows growing demand for plant-based choices and years of public pressure urging the fast-food giant to provide more sustainable alternatives. Our Moving the Menu report revealed that McDonald’s ranked near the bottom when it comes to offering plant-based options,  making this move an important first step, but also a reminder that they still have a ways to go.

A step in the right direction

This is more than just a new sandwich. It is a sign that change is possible. Across Canada and around the world, people are asking for meals that are better for animals, the planet and human health. By making the McVeggie permanent, McDonald’s is responding to that demand.

But let’s be clear: this is just the beginning.

Research undoubtedly shows that cutting back on industrial animal farming is critical to protecting animals and reducing the emissions that drive climate change. Adding one veggie burger is progress, but companies like McDonald’s will need to go much further if they want to be part of building a sustainable food system.

Why it matters

• Animal welfare: Industrial farming causes immense suffering for billions of animals each year. Expanding plant-based menus helps reduce demand for factory-farmed meat. 

• The environment: Plant-based foods produce far fewer greenhouse gas emissions, use less land and require less water than conventional meat. In fact, a plant-based burger can generate up to 90% fewer emissions than a beef burger. 

• Consumer choice: Canadians want more options. Expanding menus with plant-based meals helps people make choices that reflect their values. 

• It’s McDonald’s: When McDonald’s makes a change, it can have a big impact on our food system and Canadians’ food choices because of their sheer size, the volume of food they purchase and the power of their brand and influence. 

A win worth celebrating

McDonald’s adding the McVeggie is a small but important shift. It shows that public demand, pressure from advocates and the voices of thousands of caring people like you can influence the biggest players in our food system.

This is not the finish line. One plant-based option on a massive menu will not fix the problems of factory farming or create a sustainable food system on its own. But it is a step in the right direction and proof that change is possible.

Thank you

To the 6,000 people who signed our petition to McDonald’s and shared their support, thank you. Your voices were part of the public momentum showing that Canadians care about more compassionate and sustainable food choices. This is a reminder that collective action matters and that together we can keep pushing for change.

Watch this space for more ways to take action for animals and the future of food. If you haven’t already, sign up for our email list to get updates delivered straight to your inbox.