The 2024 Paris Olympic Games may be over, but we’re still loving the fact that the Paris Olympic Committee rocked a sustainable food strategy that transformed the dining experience at the 2024 Games. With a commitment to environmental responsibility, the committee made 60% of the culinary offerings at event venues vegetarian, along with a completely meat-free temporary stadium.

The athlete’s village featured a 3,300-seat restaurant where half of the menu showcased vegetarian dishes, replacing traditional French fries with nutritious lentils. This initiative was part of a broader effort to reduce the carbon footprint of each meal served during the games by half, according to the head of sustainable food at the Paris organizing committee.

Lending her voice to the chorus of approval is Nichole Dandrea-Russert, MS, RDN, noted nutrition expert and author of The Vegan Athlete’s Nutrition Handbook. Dandrea-Russert applauds the Paris organizers for their proactive approach to climate change, highlighting the importance of vegetarian and meat-free options in promoting sustainability.

“It’s inspiring to see the Paris Olympic organizers taking a bold step in combating climate change by promoting awareness and implementing practical solutions,” says Dandrea-Russert. “By consuming high-antioxidant, nutrient-dense plant-based foods like lentils, beans, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, athletes [were] better equipped to sleep well, perform at their peak, and recover efficiently, ultimately preparing them to compete at their best.”

Dandrea-Russert’s handbook serves as a valuable resource for athletes seeking to improve their performance through balanced, plant-based nutrition. Her expertise in the field underscores the positive impact that such dietary choices can have on athletic prowess and environmental conservation.