The United Nations (U.N.) found a lot to love about two vegan school lunch programs in Germany and presented them with a 2018 Climate Action Award. Perhaps American schools could learn a thing or two from them and serve more vegan options as well.
It’s a fitting time to do so, considering that National School Lunch Week is October 15-19, and this year’s theme is “School Lunch: Lots 2 Love.” Caring, health-conscious, environmentally friendly students would love more vegan choices.
As the U.N. points out, vegan eating is “the solution” to reaching climate action goals and improving our health. Vegan foods require fewer resources and cause less greenhouse-gas emissions than do meat and dairy-based foods. And unlike mystery meat, cheese pizza and other animal-based foods, vegan foods are cholesterol-free, generally low in fat, and high in fiber and other nutrients.
Compassionate kids will also enjoy learning that each vegan saves nearly 200 animals every year and that they can still eat tasty vegan versions of their favorite foods, including pizza and burgers. See PETA.org for more information and free vegan recipes that students will eat right up.
Heather Moore
PETA Foundation