Chick-fil-A Developing Vegan Meat Options

Chick-fil-A is in the early stages of developing plant-based meat for its menu, according to the chain’s Senior Director of Menu Development Amanda Norris. The fast-food chain—notorious for its donations to anti-LGBTQ causes—has been exploring meat alternatives more closely after competitors such as Burger King and Carl’s Jr. updated their menus with plant-based burgers. “We’re definitely aware, and I would say we’re always interested in, what’s happening in food,” Norris told Business Insider. “Specifically … a vegetarian option or a vegan option is something we’re looking at, we’re thinking about, and have [done] some [research and development].” Norris revealed that developing menu items typically takes 18 to 24 months and the company is willing to consider adding a vegan chicken option. “I think it goes back to how far will our customers want us to go,” Norris said. “We’re certainly wanting to broaden our thinking … we think it is certainly beyond just no meat on salads or no meat in a wrap. It might be some kind of alternative protein on a sandwich.” Earlier this month, Dunkin’ (formerly Dunkin’ Donuts) CEO David Hoffman revealed that the chain is also considering adding vegan meat to its menu after observing the growing popularity of Beyond Meat.