In an effort to keep up with evolving consumer preferences, United Airlines recently announced that it's focusing on plant-based menu items in 2020. The new vegan options were created by chef Gerry Gulli and include "red beet hummus with roasted vegetables; roasted curry cauliflower with whipped hummus and pomegranate; and vegan stuffed grape leaf with dolma-infused yogurt."
While the brand originally only served frozen meals in 1985, it has since expanded to create high-quality dishes that consumers can get excited about. The scope of this project is large and will have quite an impact on the environment. According to a recent report, United Airlines distributes over 55 million meals a year while managing more than 2,500 catering employees and has since expanded to add an additional 6,000 catering partners.
Vegan Airplane Menus
United Airlines Will Update its Menu to Include Vegan Options in 2020
Trend Themes
1. Plant-based Airline Menus - The trend toward plant-based diets is creating opportunities for airlines to offer vegan options and diversify their menu offerings.
2. Sustainability in the Airline Food Industry - Sustainability initiatives in the airline food industry, such as reducing food waste and sourcing locally grown produce, allow for innovation and differentiation among airlines.
3. Vegan Cuisine in Travel and Hospitality - The growing demand for plant-based diets is creating opportunities for innovation in vegan cuisine in the travel and hospitality industry.
Industry Implications
1. Airlines - Airlines can incorporate plant-based menu items and sustainability initiatives to create differentiated offerings and appeal to evolving consumer preferences.
2. Food Service Providers - Food service providers can develop new vegan options and explore sustainability initiatives to meet the demand for plant-based diets in the airline food industry.
3. Hospitality and Travel - Hospitality and travel providers can innovate in vegan cuisine and sustainability initiatives in response to growing consumer demand for plant-based options.