Michelin starred chef Tom Kerridge has prompted an outcry from vegan campaigners after naming his latest restaurant Bad Vegan, despite the outlet serving bacon.
Opening in Camden this week, Bad Vegan serves a predominantly plant-based menu designed by the celebrated chef. There are some options however that have meat added to them, for flexiterians. Items are clearly marked on the menu as ‘not vegan’. These include a beef brisket topping for the house signature Taternator (pictured below, if you're interested), smoked bacon salted fries and a flatbread topped with spicy nduja sausage.
The UK’s leading vegan campaigning charity Viva! has described the concept as ‘disingenuous’ and ‘hurting the vegan movement’ . Viva!’s Head of Communications, Faye Lewis adds:
‘What’s worst is they’re capitalising on the popularity of veganism while perpetuating the same tired old myths such as ‘judgemental’ vegan stereotypes. As a self-styled fake vegan brand, surely this is just a massive step backwards from an audience they are trying to align themselves with.
‘While it’s 100% acceptable to target plant-based alternatives to meat reducers, their messaging actually hurts the vegan movement to claim to be radical while having non vegan sides and toppings. The whole thing leaves a bad taste in the mouth – much like their sides and toppings.’
While vegan restaurants are becoming increasingly popular, according to Plant Based News just 1.16% of UK adults currently follow a plant-based diet. However, the lifestyle choice is gaining ground. It is thought that the number of vegans in the UK has nearly doubled in the last 12 months, indicating a shift in consumer focus when it comes to their food.
In 2018 a study by the University of Oxford found that the single biggest way that individuals can help combat climate change is to go vegan.
Not ready to take the plunge? Why not try one of these vegetarian restaurants instead