Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, is cater to the rising demand for plant-based diets by introducing more than 300 curated plant-based recipes to its ‘vegan vault’. With the surge in customer interest, marked by a 40% increase in demand for plant-based meals, Emirates aims to introduce an array of new vegan dishes onboard and in lounges throughout 2024.
As the world witnesses a global peak in Veganuary, an initiative promoting the benefits of a vegan diet for the past decade, Emirates has experienced a substantial increase in customer preference for plant-based options. To address this growing demand, Emirates will enhance its culinary offerings, contributing to the already extensive ‘vegan vault.’
Kenya, in particular, is experiencing a surge in veganism, leading to increased creativity in meal preparation and presentation. Nairobi stands out as the most vegan-friendly city in Kenya, offering a diverse range of vegan options from breakfast to burgers, showcasing the growing acceptance of plant-based lifestyles.
Emirates has consistently demonstrated its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its passengers. In 2023, the airline featured over 300 vegan recipes across 140 destinations, up from 180 recipes in 2022. Moreover, the number of plant-based meals served onboard rose to over 450,000, a significant increase from 280,000 in 2022. Vegan meal consumption has grown by 40% year on year, surpassing passenger volume growth in key regions such as Africa (4% increase), Southeast Asia (5% increase), and the Middle East (34% increase).
Here are some of the Emirates vegan cuisines that you can find in every class. In Economy class, Emirates customers can enjoy moreish dishes like chickpea crepe stuffed with carrot, peppers, mushroom and tomato concasse, experience a textured pumpkin frittata, tuck into a tofu tikka masala or enjoy a hearty chickpea kale stew with parsley pilaf rice and baby spinach. Scrumptious vegan desserts in Economy include a coconut mousse with mango compote, moist banana cake with chocolate crumble or luscious chocolate pudding with cocoa soil.
In Premium Economy class, customers choosing vegan cuisine will be served nutritiously delicious dishes like jackfruit curry with basmati rice, or a rich squash chestnut stew followed by a light chocolate tofu cheesecake or a smooth and satisfying raspberry parfait with a pop of orange compote.
In Business class, a range of elegant and creatively curated dishes are offered including roasted cauliflower with ancient grains, caramelised pear and lovage pesto or a warming ragout of Asian tofu and shitake mushroom with glass noodles. Customers who have room for dessert can feast on a tropical coconut pineapple cake or indulge in a chocolate cheesecake accented by a dark chocolate cigar and strawberry compote.
In First class, customers will be treated to exceptionally elevated vegan cuisine like creamy polenta cake with thyme mushroom ragout, sautéed spinach drizzled in a rich root vegetable jus. Dishes offering a burst of sophisticated flavours include aubergine curry with charred rice and turmeric potato, with a dash of coconut and mint chutney. Decadent desserts feature curated contrasts including the tartness of rhubarb tempered with strawberry charlotte, Chantilly cream and raspberry tuille, or a tempting warm chocolate fondant, dashed with salted caramel sauce and whipped cashew cream.
Later in the year, Emirates will be launching a selection of new vegan main courses, new vegan snacks such as fruit muffins and vegan pizza, and an array of delectable desserts including chocolate pecan cake, pistachio raspberry and raspberry tonka cake.
Vegan options are available to pre-order onboard and order directly in First Class, as well as in Emirates Lounges. Customers can request vegan meals on all Emirates flights and across all classes of travel up to 24 hours before departure.
Economy Class witnessed the most substantial increase in the consumption of vegan meals, with notable spikes on Emirates routes to China, Japan, and the Philippines. The airline’s commitment to embracing plant-based lifestyles extends to its Cabin Crew, with vegan meals introduced for the crew in 2018.
Emirates remains dedicated to providing a diverse and sustainable dining experience for its passengers, reflecting the evolving preferences and values of a global audience. The introduction of new vegan dishes and the expansion of the ‘vegan vault’ underscore Emirates’ commitment to catering to the diverse dietary choices of its passengers while contributing to environmental sustainability.