TOMS RIVER, N.J. — PETA is taking its campaign against Friendly’s to Toms River this week, bringing its “iScream” truck to the restaurant on Hooper Avenue as part of a nationwide effort to pressure the chain into offering vegan ice cream.
The demonstration is scheduled for Friday at 5 p.m. outside the Friendly’s restaurant at 1210 Hooper Ave.
According to PETA, volunteers will distribute free dairy-free ice cream to visitors while displaying signs criticizing the dairy industry and encouraging Friendly’s to expand its menu with plant-based frozen desserts.
Protest targets lack of vegan ice cream options
PETA says the event is aimed at convincing Friendly’s to add dairy-free ice cream to its menu for customers who are lactose intolerant or choose not to consume dairy products.
“By refusing to offer a single animal-friendly vegan ice cream, Friendly’s leaves tons of kids out in the cold,” PETA President Tracy Reiman said.
The organization said the “iScream” truck will also feature games for children, including a prize wheel and a scream challenge, along with a person dressed as a unicorn interacting with attendees.
PETA’s campaign also criticizes dairy production practices and is part of the organization’s broader advocacy promoting plant-based alternatives.
Key Points
- PETA will bring its “iScream” truck to Friendly’s in Toms River on Friday at 5 p.m.
- The organization plans to give away free vegan ice cream while urging Friendly’s to add dairy-free frozen desserts.
- The event will also include games, prizes, and costumed volunteers.
Friendly’s has not announced menu changes
PETA has staged similar demonstrations targeting restaurant chains and food companies across the country in an effort to encourage expanded vegan offerings.
The organization says it wants Friendly’s to introduce at least one vegan ice cream option that can be enjoyed by customers who avoid dairy.
As of Thursday, Friendly’s had not announced any changes to its menu in response to the campaign.
FAQ
When is the event?
Friday at 5 p.m.
Where will it take place?
Outside Friendly’s, 1210 Hooper Ave., Toms River.
What is PETA protesting?
The organization wants Friendly’s to add vegan ice cream to its menu.
Will food be available?
PETA says it will distribute free dairy-free ice cream during the event.
Has Friendly’s responded?
No public response or menu changes had been announced as of Thursday.
Source: PETA news release
