Taco Bell’s Discontinued Fiesta Veggie Burrito: The Vegetarian Favorite Fans Want Back

Taco Bell’s Fiesta Veggie Burrito, beloved by vegetarians for its bold flavors and texture, was discontinued in early 2024, sparking backlash from fans. Known for its combination of seasoned rice, black beans, and chipotle sauce, the burrito's absence leaves a gap in Taco Bell's vegetarian offerings.

Taco Bell’s Menu Overhaul Leaves Vegans Without a Beloved Option as Fiesta Veggie Burrito Disappears

Fast food chains are infamous for discontinuing beloved menu items, much to the dismay of their loyal customers. McDonald's no longer offers the Fruit 'n Yogurt Parfait, Starbucks bid farewell to its Morning Bun, and in early 2024, Taco Bell removed the Fiesta Veggie Burrito from its lineup. Often, these changes come as part of a menu overhaul, or items are introduced temporarily to gauge customer interest.

Vegans and vegetarians particularly cherished the Fiesta Veggie Burrito. When ordered "fresco style" — a term for holding the dairy — the burrito became a go-to meatless option at Taco Bell. In a world of bland fast-food vegetarian options, the Fiesta Veggie Burrito stood out for its flavor. According to The Daily Meal, the burrito featured seasoned rice, black beans, chipotle sauce, sour cream, cheese, tomatoes, guacamole, and crunchy red chips wrapped in a soft tortilla. The textural contrast and bold flavors made it a party for the taste buds, hence its fitting name.

The burrito’s discontinuation sparked a significant backlash, leading vegetarian Derek Bolton to start a petition on Change.org calling for its reinstatement. Bolton criticized Taco Bell for failing to offer a comparable alternative to the Fiesta Veggie Burrito, especially given that Taco Bell was the first quick-service restaurant certified by the American Vegetarian Association (AVA). He argued that removing the burrito felt like a step backward for the chain, which has long offered vegetarian-friendly options.

Taco Bell Leaves Vegans Disappointed as Fiesta Veggie Burrito and Vegan Nacho Fries Disappear

The Fiesta Veggie Burrito is one of many items that disappointed vegans and vegetarians. Taco Bell previously introduced vegan nacho fries in select test markets, but they were removed shortly after. While familiar, this practice of running limited-time items in test markets often leaves plant-based eaters feeling confused and disheartened when their favorite options disappear. However, there are examples of chains listening to customer demand. For instance, Panda Express recently returned its Beyond Orange Chicken in July 2024 after an outcry from the vegan and vegetarian community.

Taco Bell has not announced plans to bring back the Fiesta Veggie Burrito. Until the chain reconsiders, vegans and vegetarians looking for a flavorful, meatless meal must turn to alternatives like Moe's or Chipotle to satisfy their cravings.