According to a news statement, Taco Bell is launching a vegan menu item nationally for the first time. Nacho Fries with Vegan Nacho sauce will be available nationwide on October 12.
The nacho-seasoned fries are vegan only by being seasoned. Tradition dictates that each meal includes a side of milk and cheese sauce. New vegan "cheese" sauce will be animal-free.
Vegan Nacho Fries will cost $2.19 or $2.99, the same as dairy ones. The fast food company released Nacho Fries in 2018. Since then, the side dish has been on and off the menu multiple times (it was meant to be permanent).
The fries with dairy-based cheese are offered for the 10th time on September 28. Vegan nacho cheese sauce debuted in certain areas in June 2023 as part of a Crunchwrap test.
While Taco Bell was the first fast food business to provide American Vegetarian Association-certified foods, the Nacho Fries will be the first promoted as vegan.
However, plant-based eaters have liked the brand. The current menu offers "Veggie Cravings" with meat-free alternatives for vegetarians.
Although some of these dishes involve cheese, sour cream, or nacho cheese sauce, the menu offers for vegan substitutions.
Taco Bell lets customers substitute refried beans, black beans, or potatoes for meat on any menu item for free. Diners may reference AVA-certified vegan ingredients on the company's website.
The eatery warns that kitchens and frying oil may be contaminated with pork or dairy.
Taco Bell believes that over 10% of their offerings are vegetarian or adapted to be such. Its first vegan menu item may indicate additional plant-based options.