Powering Up with Climate-Friendly Protein in Our Neighborhood
Swapping animal products for plant-based proteins offers profound environmental benefits. According to a landmark 2018 study by Oxford University published in the journal Science, transitioning to a plant-based diet can reduce an individual’s food-related contribution to global climate change by up to 73% while dramatically cutting land and water degradation. On a broader scale, a Stanford University environmental report estimates that if everyone in the US skipped meat and cheese just one day a week, the resulting emissions reduction would equal taking 7.6 million cars off the road annually.
Eating more plants is better for the planet and better for us. A growing consensus among top medical and health institutions emphasizes that whole food, plant-based proteins are unrivaled for long-term health and vitality. The American Heart Association encourages adults to swap meat for plant sources, noting that “[b]eans, lentils, chickpeas, and other legumes are packed with protein and fiber… [and] improve heart health.” And the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health emphasizes that “the more veggies—and the greater the variety—the better,” while warning to limit red meat and avoid bacon, cold cuts, and other processed meats.
The best news for local residents is that trying plant-based protein doesn't require sacrifice: our local dining scene offers a rich abundance of delicious, protein-packed dishes.
100% Vegan: Alice & Friends
Multiple Protein Options (e.g., tofu, edamame, soy, beans, nuts): FARE, Sweetgreen, Mora, Katy’s Dumplings, Cava [RF], Chipotle
Beans: Maya Del Sol, Cafe Cubano, Hecho en Oak Park, Margaritas, Victory Italian (lima); Scratch on Lake (bean burger); Taco Pros
Tofu: Khyber Pass, Penny’s Noodle Shop
Falafel: Grape Leaves, Jerusalem Cafe
Breakfast Options: Breakfast House (vegan chorizo), First Watch [RF] (beans)
You can easily find similar options anywhere with the website https://www.happycow.net/.
Incorporating even a meal or two plant-based protein sources into your week benefits your heart, protects the planet, and supports our vibrant local restaurants.
Eric Samore, River Forest
