Whitsons Culinary Group has partnered with the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) to launch a new plant-based concept for its K-12 audience.
Named Veggabols, the new concept is being tested out at 12 pilot schools this spring and offers students 10 different plant-based entrees.
Recipes for the concept were developed by HSUS chefs and include existing Whitsons menu items that were modified to be plant-based as well as brand new dishes such as a fiesta rice and beans Veggabols and a BBQ chickpea and rice Veggabols.
HSUS and Whitsons provided virtual plant-based culinary training to staff at each of the pilot schools. Throughout the pilot, Whitsons will be testing out marketing materials, monitoring its greenhouse gas savings and receiving student feedback. The food management company plans to expand the program to all of its K-12 locations by this fall.
“Whitsons is pleased to be expanding our plant-based offerings through our new Veggabols concept. It perfectly complements our "Simply Rooted" philosophy of promoting wholesome foods, a healthy environment, and balanced diets,” Kelly Friend, chief operating officer of Whitsons said in a statement. “We started on our plant-based journey several years ago, with the Meatless Monday campaign, and now, with the support of HSUS, we are continuing to add to our menu offerings with these delicious and healthy new plant-based recipes that our student customers are sure to enjoy.