The last few months have seen a fresh wave of coffee chains stop charging extra for dairy-free milk. In October, Starbucks announced it was making the change in a bid to “embrace all the ways customers enjoy their Starbucks.” In early 2025, Dunkin’ followed its lead, which led Taylor Warren, president of the Center for Responsible Food Business, to declare that “the era of the ‘milk tax’ is ending.” That feels truer than ever right now because Peet’s Coffee has also just joined the free non-dairy milk club—after a little pressure from a certain member of The Beatles.
You can find more details on the news from Peet’s Coffee below. We’ve also got an exciting update from McDonald’s, a new development from US Foods, the lowdown on a new vegan cheese competition at Lidl, Lollapalooza’s new dairy-free partner, and much more. Let’s dive in.
Peet’s Coffee has dropped its plant-based milk charge
Peet’s Coffee will eliminate the extra charge for dairy-free milk starting June 4. The coffee chain, which has over 200 locations across the US, made the decision following a campaign by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) advocating for the change. Musician and activist Paul McCartney supported the campaign, writing to Peet’s Coffee CEO Eric Lauterbach to highlight the environmental benefits of dairy-free milk. Peet’s Coffee announced the policy update on social media, confirming that customers will no longer pay extra for non-dairy alternatives, starting this summer. The post also confirmed that starting from April 1, there will be an exclusive in-app preview of the change for Peetnik Rewards members.
McDonald’s Canada launches McVeggie Burger
McDonald’s is testing a new meat-free burger, the McVeggie, in select Canadian restaurants until April 14. Unlike Europe’s McPlant, which features a plant-based meat patty, the McVeggie is made from a vegetable-based patty. A Spicy Habanero version will also be available at test locations. “While our guests may have tried similar sandwiches at McDonald’s globally, our McVeggie is uniquely Canadian,” said Jeff Anderson, McDonald’s senior manager of culinary innovation. “We’re always looking for new opportunities to innovate and build on our menu, and the McVeggie will give even more guests the opportunity to enjoy that delicious McDonald’s flavor Canadians know and love.”
So Delicious announced as an official Lollapalooza partner
Dairy-free frozen dessert brand So Delicious has become an official partner of Lollapalooza, the iconic music festival in Chicago’s Grant Park. Announcing the partnership on social media, the brand teased, “Chicago, get ready to dairy-free your mind.” While specific details are still under wraps, festival-goers can look forward to a variety of vegan ice cream to enjoy while experiencing four days of performances by artists like Olivia Rodrigo, Tyler the Creator, Sabrina Carpenter, Korn, and many more, from July 31 to August 3.
Unreal launches vegan Easter boxes
Candy brand Unreal is welcoming spring with its new limited-edition, Easter-themed boxes. With up to 51-percent less sugar than traditional candy, the vegan, non-GMO treats are perfect for Easter baskets and egg hunts. The festive boxes, decorated with tulips and bunnies in pastel colors, feature fan-favorite products including Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups (a Reese’s dupe) and Dark Chocolate Coconut Bars (an Almond Joy dupe). Find them in several retailers now, including Amazon, Whole Foods, Sprouts, New Seasons, Thrive, and Misfits.
Vita Coco
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Vita Coco partners with Peet’s Coffee and Joe Coffee on new coconut water options
Vita Coco has teamed up with Peet’s Coffee and New York City’s Joe Coffee to launch new coconut water-infused beverages. Starting in April, Peet’s will offer Coconut Water Matcha and Coconut Water Cold Brew as part of its expanded Vitality Menu. Meanwhile, Joe Coffee customers can try the new Orange & Crème Coconut Latte, made with Waverly Espresso and Vita Coco water. Dietitian Sammi Brondo, MS, RD, CDN, who collaborated with Peet’s on its new menu, praised the offerings, stating, “These drinks offer the perfect balance of nourishment and taste.”
US Foods has developed unsalted non-dairy butter
US Foods, one of the largest food service distributors in the US, has introduced Glenview Farms Unsalted Non-Dairy Butter as part of its spring product lineup. Developed through rigorous testing by culinary experts, this vegan butter offers the same taste and texture as traditional butter, making it ideal for baking, frying, and cooking. “At US Foods, we are committed to bringing our operators high-quality, innovative products that enable them to create memorable, differentiated, and profitable menu offerings,” Stacey Kinkaid, vice president of product development and innovation at US Foods, said in a statement.
Plant Ahead to distribute vegan cheese across the US
Plant-based cheese brand Plant Ahead USA has partnered with DOT Foods to expand the national distribution of its premium plant-based cheeses, including vegan mozzarella, cheddar, and feta. DOT Foods is the leading food industry distributor in the US, so this strategic collaboration will allow Plant Ahead to reach a wider range of food service operators, including restaurants, event venues, healthcare institutions, and schools. “Partnering with DOT Foods is a game-changer for Plant Ahead,” said Jeff Strah, vice president of sales and marketing for the brand. “Their nationwide distribution capabilities allow us to meet the growing demand for delicious, high-quality plant-based cheese options, ensuring our products are accessible to food service establishments of all sizes.”
Lidl has launched a plant-based cheese competition
Lidl Germany has partnered with ProVeg Incubator to find the next best vegan cheese. The new Lidl x ProVeg Cheese Alternative Innovation Competition aims to discover innovative plant-based cheese alternatives across Europe and beyond. The competition is open to startups developing new dairy-free cheese products, ingredients, or technologies, and the winning product will be sold under Lidl’s private label, Vemondo, in select stores across Germany. Applicants must submit their entries by April 27. “We’re looking to hear from applicants who bring something extraordinary to the table, whether it’s a delicious cheese alternative or an innovative ingredient or technology that can revolutionize the production of cheese alternatives,” Christoph Graf, head of purchasing at Lidl in Germany, said in a statement.
Juicy Marbles
Juicy Marbles launches new whole-cut plant-based pork
Juicy Marbles, a Slovenia-based startup, has introduced its latest product: Pork-ish, a 6.4-ounce plant-based pork cut priced at $10 per pack. This is the first whole cut of pork in the plant-based category and builds on previous innovations from the brand, including marbled steaks and lamb. Juicy Marbles is also shifting its entire portfolio to Marble 3.0, a clean-label, nutrient-rich recipe. Read more on the new product launch here.
Benexia launches the world’s first chia seed milk
Benexia, a chia seed specialist, has introduced what it claims to be the first-ever chia seed milk under its Seeds of Wellness brand. This innovative plant-based milk is made from whole chia seeds, offering a rich source of protein, fiber, and omega-3 fats, along with a nutty flavor. The chia milk is processed using a nearly zero-waste, waterless method, preserving the nutritional value and flavor. Available in original flavor, with vanilla coming soon, the milk is now available in select Costco stores and on Amazon.
Better Nature’s new tempeh has just as much protein as six eggs
Better Nature has launched its New & Improved Organic Tempeh, now available in UK supermarkets, including Tesco, Asda, and Ocado. The updated product boasts 44g of protein per pack, which is equivalent to the protein content of six eggs or one and a third chicken breasts. In addition to being a rich source of protein, the new tempeh is packed with gut-friendly fiber, prebiotics, and iron.
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Charlotte is a VegNews editor and writer based in sunny Southsea on England's southern coast.
