A UNITED States restaurant chain, which is aiming to make fast food healthier, has started adding Australian beef to a variety of dishes on its menu.

Sweetgreen has more than 200 stores across the US, presenting consumers with a “plant-forward, earth friendly” menu that focuses on salads and bowls. The restaurant chain is planning to be carbon neutral by 2027.

According to the online menu, the restaurant chain is offering caramelised steak in several dishes – which slow cooked and then seared in store before being diced and seasoned with olive oil and herbs.

Sweetgreen says it took time to find a reliable supply of grassfed beef that fit in with the company’s principles.

“With principles rooted in regenerative agriculture, the practice of pasture-raising not only contributes to soil health and makes the land more resilient to flooding and drought, but can boost nutrient content and flavour as well,” the website says.

“Grass-fed, pasture-raised steak is not only regarded as high quality, nutrient-dense and flavourful, but also as one of the gentlest ways to raise cattle on the planet.

“Raising cattle will never be perfect, but Sweetgreen has never shied away from a challenge. We believe that changing the food chain starts from the inside out and this is just the beginning. With our passion and your support, we know we can make a difference. Even with steak.”

Sweetgreen has already received criticism from voices opposed to the beef industry, with an article in the New York Times questioning what the move would mean for its carbon neutral target.

Opportunity for Australian industry

In an article on its website today, Meat & Livestock Australia said the move from Sweetgreen was a win-win for the chain and for the Australian beef industry.

“This move is a testament to health-conscious US consumers increasingly seeking red meat,” the website said.

“Sweetgreen uses large quantities of Aussie Beef, presenting a fantastic opportunity for the Australian beef industry to showcase its products in the US’s fast-growing, health-focused, fast casual dining sector.

“It not only opens a vast new market but also reinforces the global reputation of Aussie Beef as a premium, sustainable product. The collaboration with Sweetgreen is expected to drive demand for Aussie Beef, boosting the industry and creating new growth opportunities.

“Sweetgreen’s decision to incorporate beef into its menu is a win-win for the restaurant chain and the Australian beef industry.

“It highlights the exceptional quality and sustainability of Aussie Beef, aligns with Sweetgreen’s mission of offering ethically sourced food, and provides a unique dining experience for customers. This partnership is a shining example of how Aussie Beef can thrive in the international market, paving the way for future collaborations and continued success.”