A&W adds a plant-based burger to its Canadian menu, while McDonald’s launches the McVeggie nationwide.

A&W has permanently added a plant-based burger made with pea protein and soy to its Canadian menu, featuring lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and condiments on a sesame bun, with mayo available upon request. McDonald’s has launched the McVeggie, a vegetable-based sandwich with a breaded patty of carrots, peas, zucchini, and other veggies, served with mayo or spicy habanero spread, available nationwide after positive taste tests. Both items reflect growing demand for plant-forward options, with experts noting taste, price, and convenience as key to adoption, while advising mindful choices about processed ingredients. The McVeggie shares a fryer with the Filet-O-Fish but uses separate baskets.