policy summary

This subgroup is working on a policy that would promote plant-based defaults at internal events and meetings of Denver government agencies where food is served. Through this policy, Denver government agencies would ensure equitable access to meals for people from all backgrounds. Serving plant-based meals with the option to opt into animal products includes everyone by default, such as the 30-50 million Americans who are lactose intolerant (who are predominantly BIPOC), folks with religious restrictions, young people who are eating more plant-based foods, people of color who are statistically more likely to be reducing their consumption of animal products, and those with allergies or medically prescribed diets. Plant-based defaults have proven to be a tremendously effective yet simple strategy to support people’s interest in consuming healthier and more sustainable foods - increasing their uptake by about 60 percentage points - thereby reducing catering’s water, land, and carbon footprints, while being inclusive of all dietary needs and protecting diner choice.