Animal rights group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) UK has launched a petition calling for Greggs to add a vegan sausage roll to its menu.

The move comes after two years of work by the campaign group and as Veganuary – a month-long celebration of veganism first launched in 2014 – gets under way.

“More people than ever are clamouring for healthy vegan options from their favourite on-the-go eateries,” said PETA director of vegan corporate projects Dawn Carr. “PETA is calling on Greggs to heed this growing demand, add a vegan sausage roll to the menu, and watch the cruelty-free treats fly off the shelves.”

The petition highlights the growing range of meat- and dairy-free foods at supermarkets, such as Sainsbury’s and Tesco, as well as dairy-free cheese at pizza chains Pizza Express and Zizzi and a full vegan menu at pub chain JD Wetherspoon. PETA said Greggs was notably missing from this list.

The bakery chain’s current vegan offer includes sweet mince pies, potato wedges, popcorn, crisps and drinks. Greggs said it was dedicated to increasing its range in the future.

A spokesperson for the bakery chain told British Baker: “We understand that vegan and vegetarian diets are of growing importance to many people - whether that be for moral or health reasons, or indeed both. As a company that believes in putting customers at the heart of everything we do, we plan to introduce even more vegan and vegetarian options in the future.”