Joining Plant-Based Canes (PBC) doesn’t mean you have to give up all your favorite foods. All it takes is an open mind and a willingness to embrace sustainable choices.
PBC is a student club focused on building a community for vegans and vegetarians. It aims to teach members about the benefits of incorporating more plant-based foods into their diets, not just for health, but also for animal welfare and the environment.
“People often misunderstand us,” says Gabriel Izaguirre, the club president. “It’s not strictly about being vegan. It’s about adding more plant-based options into our lives and promoting sustainable eating habits.”
You don’t need to overhaul your entire diet to make a difference. Simple changes, like trying oat, almond, or soy milk instead of dairy or swapping chicken for tofu, can be a great start.
If you’re looking for a place to begin, PBC hosts weekly dinners at Mahoney-Pearson dining hall every Wednesday at 7 p.m. These gatherings offer a chance to enjoy delicious meals prepared by Chef Vincent with fellow students, whether you’re curious about plant-based diets or already a fan. No Cane Card swipe is needed—just inform the door staff you’re there for the PBC meetup.
Izaguirre encourages members to realize that adopting a sustainable lifestyle doesn’t mean sacrificing taste or quality. In a world where TikTok often frames veganism as a competition, many Gen Z students prefer a more balanced approach. For them, it’s about community and enjoyment, not strict rules.
PBC aims to create a mindful campus culture surrounding wellness and sustainability, rather than enforcing rigid guidelines. After a recent transition in leadership, Izaguirre and secretary Linley Loew took on the task of rebuilding the organization. Now, with a full board, they are expanding activities like cooking workshops and campus tabling events.
Over the summer, they met with Mike Ross, head of UM Dining, and Chef Vincent. This collaboration helps keep their efforts aligned with the dining services at the university.
Ultimately, Plant-Based Canes is proving that living a plant-based lifestyle can be enjoyable, flavorful, and free from judgment. It’s not about facing scrutiny but celebrating choices that benefit both health and the planet.
According to a recent survey by the Plant Based Foods Association, 57% of U.S. consumers report trying to add more plant-based foods to their diets. This trend reflects a growing recognition of the importance of sustainable eating practices. Whether through clubs like PBC or personal choices, more people are embracing the idea that small shifts can lead to big changes.
Plant-Based Canes welcomes everyone, proving that sustainable living can fit seamlessly into any lifestyle.
















