News

Four fast casuals up for PETA2 Awards

November 20, 2013

Four fast casual concepts are nominees for Best Vegan-Friendly Restaurant Chain in Peta2's eighth annual Libby Awards. Peta2, PETA's youth division, has narrowed the field down to four nominees, according to a company press release.

Up for the title is Chipotle, whose build-your-own ordering system has made it a favorite of vegans and vegetarians for years, according to the release, but the recent phase-in of vegan pinto beans and the tofu Sofritas has made the eatery a leading contender. Tropical Smoothie Café also earned a nomination, thanks to the addition of vegan chicken strips from Beyond Meat. Beloved college student haunt The Pita Pit — with its budget-friendly pricing, late-night hours, and customizable sandwiches with free extra hummus — made the cut, as did HuHot Mongolian Grill, with its all-you-can-eat menu boasting tofu and fresh veggies, said PETA Director of Youth Outreach and Campaigns Marta Holmberg.

"Animal rights is one of the fastest-growing social movements in America and worldwide, and young people are leading the charge by insisting on cruelty-free eating," she said. "All our animal-friendly nominees are winners because they're offering some of the best and most delicious meals on the market."

Other food-related categories include Best Vegan Snack, Best Accidentally Vegan Snack, and Best Vegan Cheese. Voting ends on Dec. 13. Winners will be chosen by Peta2 based on several factors, including vote count, and will be announced Dec. 17.

Read more about operations management.