Is Burger King Removing The Impossible Burger?

Written by the VEGPRENEUR team

If true, this would be a major blow for those who rely on fast food chains to offer convenient, accessible plant-based meals, especially as plant-based diets continue to grow in popularity.

Burger King’s Impossible Whopper has long been a favorite among vegans, vegetarians, and those looking to make more sustainable food choices. However, recent reports and social media posts are raising concerns that the fast-food giant may be quietly removing this beloved plant-based option from their U.S. menu.

The Impossible Whopper was introduced in 2019 as part of Burger King's efforts to cater to the growing demand for plant-based options. The move was celebrated by many as a sign of the fast-food industry’s shift toward more sustainable and inclusive offerings. For people who prioritize sustainability, animal welfare, or simply want to reduce their meat consumption, the Impossible Whopper was an accessible, reliable choice.

The Growing Demand for Plant-Based Options

It’s not just a niche group of people seeking plant-based meals—data backs up the growing trend. According to a recent study by GlobalData, the number of individuals identifying as vegan in the United States has surged by 600% in just the past three years. The increased interest in plant-based diets is part of a larger cultural shift toward sustainability and health-conscious eating.

As more consumers seek out plant-based options, fast food chains like Burger King play a critical role in making those choices accessible. Offering vegan-friendly items isn’t just a smart business decision; it’s a direct response to the preferences of millions of Americans who want easy, affordable access to plant-based meals.

The Petition to Bring Back the Impossible Whopper

In response to this potential removal, a Change.org petition has been launched to persuade Burger King to keep the Impossible Whopper on the menu.

The petition, created by Heather Duberson, highlights the importance of keeping accessible vegan options available at major chains like Burger King. Duberson explains her frustration as a vegan/vegetarian, emphasizing that the Impossible Whopper was not just another fast-food offering—it was a vital and convenient option for those living a plant-based lifestyle. “Not all areas are equipped with vegan or vegetarian-friendly restaurants, but most neighborhoods are home to a Burger King,” she wrote on the petition page. “The Impossible Whopper presented an easy, accessible vegan option, especially when on the move.”

Heather’s petition also points to the broader trend of plant-based eating, urging Burger King to recognize the growing demand for such options. She reminds the company that by removing the Impossible Whopper, they are not only disappointing the vegan and vegetarian communities but also potentially alienating a significant portion of their customer base who prefer more sustainable food choices.

A Wake-Up Call for Major Chains

The potential removal of the Impossible Whopper also signals an important moment for the fast-food industry as a whole. As plant-based diets become more mainstream, chains like Burger King, McDonald's, and others need to stay in tune with the evolving needs of their customer base. The demand for plant-based options is not just a passing trend; it’s part of a larger cultural shift towards more ethical and sustainable food choices.

Burger King’s response to this petition could set a precedent for other fast-food chains. If Burger King chooses to stand by its plant-based offering, it would send a message that the company values the needs and desires of its increasingly diverse customer base. Conversely, removing plant-based options could signal a missed opportunity to lead in the growing market of sustainable and ethical food choices.

What You Can Do

If you’re someone who values having plant-based choices at fast-food chains, now is the time to take action. A Change.org petition has already gathered thousands of signatures, but the more people who voice their support, the stronger the message will be. By signing the petition and sharing it with friends and family, you can help make a difference in convincing Burger King to keep the Impossible Whopper on the menu.

Here’s what Heather Duberson had to say on the petition page:

“By keeping the Impossible Whopper on the menu, you not only cater to an ever-growing vegan and vegetarian population but also encourage others to try more sustainable and plant-based food options. Let’s bring back the Impossible Whopper and move towards a happier, healthier future.”

Sign The Petition