Why Did A Meatless Meal at CPS Taste Like Meat?
In mid-October, longtime health and food reporter Monica Eng was peeking at Chicago Public Schools’ lunch menus. Yes, for fun. Monica was pleasantly surprised to learn that CPS had launched “Plant Forward Thursdays,” the district’s take on meatless options available to about 300,000 students, many of whom rely on schools for daily meals. Of course Monica wanted to know what the “lentil Joe sandwich” tasted like. But she hit a roadblock. We talk to Monica about CPS’ rollout of meatless meals and about her decades-long quest to make school lunches healthier.
Guest: Monica Eng — Reporter, Axios Chicago
Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago
Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm
Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Stay connected to City Cast Chicago and get ready to join the local conversation.
Latest Episodes
What’s in the Mayor’s 2027 Budget Proposal?
Mayor Brandon Johnson unveiled his $17.6 billion budget proposal at City Hall this week. The mayor called it “Chicago’s Fair Share Budget...

Sexual Assault Allegations at UChicago Frats. Plus, These Local Businesses Need Your Support
This episode mentions sexual assault, so please take care when listening. Today we’re talking about two sexual violence allegations...

Mass Shooting Attempt in Aurora. Plus, Will Illinois Step in for Gender-Affirming Care?
Today we’re talking about an attempted mass shooting at a Hindu Temple in Aurora and what Illinois is doing to keep gender-affirming care...

Who Is Billionaire Mega Donor Michael Sacks? Plus, What Questions Are on the Ballot?
Billionaire mega-donor Michael Sacks has been involved in Illinois politics and the state’s democratic party for decades. He has been an...

Pope Leo’s Cancer Diagnosis, Bears’ Hallmark Debut, and Soul Train Awards
Today we’re joined by contributors Jill Hopkins and Leigh Giangreco to discuss Pope Leo’s recent cancer diagnosis, Chicago’s newest Bears...

What Happened at City Hall This Week? Plus, School Board Front Runner
Today we’re talking about what went down at this week’s city council meeting, including a $260 million police settlement, attempts to ove...

Your Guide to Halloween & Día de Muertos in Chicago
There are two weeks left to go in October, which means the spooky season is almost over. But don’t worry, contributors Yareni Murillo and...

The Fat Cat Attracting Lincoln Park Rats. Plus, Northalsted’s Legacy Walk
For years, Lincoln Park neighbors have complained about one couple who has single-handedly contributed to the growing rat population in t...

Why Is Chicago Losing Maternity Wards? Plus, Guide to Judicial Elections
Safety net hospitals in the Chicagoland area are in crisis. We have covered multiple closures, including West Suburban in Oak Park and We...

OIG Reopens Dominguez Investigation. Plus, Michigan Ave Getting Bus Lane
Chicago Public Schools’ inspector general is reopening an investigation into school board presidential candidate Hilario Dominguez. He is...


