Chefs urged to offer more vegetarian options

The latest research from the Office of National Statistics suggests that three in five UK adults now eat meat-free food, with approximately 1.8 million people actively identifying themselves as vegetarians. The Vegetarian Society therefore believes there is the potential for a £700 million marketplace as health and variety of choice become key factors in the out-of-home dining experience.

“We are in an era where a growing number of consumers – not just vegetarians – are making a lifestyle choice and looking to reduce their meat intake,” said John McKears, foodservice sales manager at Jus-Rol Professional. “Gone are the days where caterers could simply provide a standard ‘default ‘vegetarian option."

Jus-Rol Professional is calling on caterers to dispel the myth that meat-free food is bland and boring by turning their hands to creating a raft of delicious meat-free dishes using its pastry.

“This research proves that there is a captive audience out there actively searching out more exciting meat-free dishes," adds McKears. "This is an important change in UK dining habits and the modern menu needs to reflect this.

“With National Vegetarian Week fast approaching, there has never been a better time to enliven your menus.”

Vegetarian recipes

Caterers can visit www.jusrolprofessional.co.uk to download vegetarian recipes including Spicy Pizza Puffs; Mini Cheese & Onion Pasties; Goats Cheese & Aubergine Windmills; and Red Pepper & Onion Tarte Tatin.

Last year, Quorn Foods launched a similar website for chefs and caterers looking to add value to their vegetarian menus.

Last week, BigHospitality announced that Cordon Vert, the Vegetarian Society’s cooking school, is calling for entries to its Vegetarian Chef of the Future competition.