Plant-Based Vendor Directory: The Fastest Way for Schools & Institutions to Source Healthy, Creditable Meals
- Whitney Swoboda
- Aug 25
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 26
TL;DR
The Plant-Based Vendor Directory is a free, searchable portal from Balanced that lets food-service teams filter hundreds of plant-based items (even K-12 creditable) by product type, protein substitute, or brand and reach suppliers in one click. It streamlines procurement, saves money, and helps you meet rising demand for healthier menus.
What Is the Plant-Based Vendor Directory?
Balanced created the directory to make procurement as simple as possible for schools, hospitals, universities, and other institutions.
Instead of juggling spreadsheets or cold-calling brands, buyers can:
Search hundreds of verified products—from plant-based chicken alternatives to fiber-rich entrées
Filter for K-12 creditable, Plantricious-certified, or allergen-friendly SKUs
Connect directly with vendors to request spec sheets, samples, or bids
Plant-Based Vendor Directory Success Story
The Academy for Global Citizenship (AGC) school in Chicago, IL has expanded their plant-based options for the 2025-2026 school year, incorporating Woodles whole grain, high-protein ramen noodles and Deeply Rooted Farms protein crumbles, both discoverable on Balanced's Plant-Based Vendor Directory.
Nutritious, delicious products like these have helped AGC transition to serving 75% plant-based meals to their students.
Why Food-Service Teams Love It
Benefit | How the Directory Delivers |
One-stop shopping | Growing list of products & vendors is updated continuously |
Credibility | Partnership with the Plant Based Foods Association helps vet and onboard quality brands |
Cost-saving samples | Balanced secured free samples for IL-4089 pilot schools, leading to new contracts |
Compliance made easy | Custom “K-12 Approved” & “Plantricious” badges speed bid evaluation |
DIY training | Hosted how-to videos guide vendors and buyers through crediting rules |
How It Works (3 Simple Steps)
Create a free account at plantbasedvendors.com.
Search & filter: Need a K-12-creditable BBQ pulled jackfruit? Select “Protein > Jackfruit” + “Creditable.”
Connect & order: Use the built-in contact form to request samples or place a PO.
Did you know you can sample before you buy?
In the summer of 2025, Balanced has connected nine school districts in Michigan and Illinois with vendors from the Plant-Based Vendor Directory who are sending FREE samples of their products to schools for taste-testing prior to adding them in to the regular menu.
Adda Veggie, Better Balance, Daiya, Deeply Rooted Farms, GroundPro, Land Lovers, Rebellyous Foods, and Sunrich Products are just a few vendors from the directory who are sending samples to support the expansion of plant-based school food options for over 4,000 students in Michigan and Illinois this fall.
Pro Tips for Maximum Impact
Pair with Balanced’s Menu Analysis Service to identify quick-win swaps.
Leverage free taste-testing guides to build student or patient buy-in.
Monitor upcoming product drops—new SKUs added monthly .
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the directory really free?
Yes! Balanced is a nonprofit; our goal is to remove barriers to healthier food procurement.
How many products are listed?
Hundreds and growing—new items are added every month.
Can I filter for USDA “Smart Snacks” or allergens?
Absolutely. Use advanced filters to flag nut-free, gluten-free, soy-free, or Smart-Snack-compliant items.
Ready to Explore?
Join thousands of food-service professionals who have already leveled-up their menus.
👉 Browse the Plant-Based Vendor Directory and start sourcing today.
Need help? Email Balanced’s Institutional Support Team at menus@balanced.org for personalized guidance.
