THE Vegan Society is planning to petition the Welsh Government asking for a vegan menu to be provided on all public sector canteen menus including hospitals, schools, prisons, universities and workplaces.

The charity is also calling for councils to lead by example by improving the vegan provision in their offices and influencing the institutions in their local authority.

Louise Davies, head of campaigns and policy at The Vegan Society, said: “Our campaign Catering for Everyone aims to secure tasty, nutritious, appropriate vegan meals on every public sector catering menu every day.

“As a patient in a hospital or as a university student you don’t always have a choice of where to eat, and it’s a problem if there are no vegan options.

“Veganism is protected under human rights and equality law, meaning vegans have the right to suitable, animal-free catering in public sector settings.

“It’s important to remember a vegan food option isn’t just for vegans – it often constitutes a safe dietary choice for everyone.

“We encourage people to get in touch with their local council, asking them to influence procurement across the public sector.”

But Ceredigion County Council said vegan meals are already available in schools in the county.

A spokesperson said: “Ceredigion County Council supports children who want a vegan food option.

“When a parent requests a vegan diet for their child, the school accommodates the request by providing a vegan food option.

“There is a special diet leaflet and request form available on the Ceredigion County Council website at www.ceredigion.gov.uk/media/1761/special-diet-leaflet.pdf”