Eating plant-based does not have to mean overspending. In fact, with a few smart strategies — like stacking rewards from cashback apps — you can enjoy wholesome, plant-powered meals at fast-casual favorites while keeping your budget in check.
Apps like Fluz, Rakuten, and Ibotta make it easier to save on everyday dining, especially at plant-friendly chains like Panera Bread, Chipotle, and Shake Shack. Let’s break down how to build affordable plant-based meals and how much you can save by stacking these rewards.
Fast-Casual Chains Serving Affordable Plant-Based Options
Panera Bread — Up to 10% cashback with Fluz
- Plant-Based Picks: Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich (order without feta for vegan), Ten Vegetable Soup, Baja Grain Bowl with avocado.
- Approximate Cost: $9–$12
- Fluz Savings: Up to $1.20 cashback
- Pro Tip: Layer with MyPanera Rewards and scan receipts with Ibotta for extra perks.
Chipotle — Up to 10% cashback with Fluz
- Plant-Based Picks: Sofritas bowl with brown rice, black beans, fajita veggies, and tomato salsa.
- Approximate Cost: Around $10.50
- Fluz Savings: ~$1.05 cashback
- Stack Savings: Order through DoorDash with Rakuten activated for delivery cashback, plus upload your receipt to Ibotta for bonus rewards.
Shake Shack — Around 8% cashback with Fluz
- Plant-Based Picks: ’Shroom Burger, or order your sandwich lettuce-wrapped for a lighter option.
- Approximate Cost: $8.99
- Fluz Savings: ~$0.72 cashback
- Extra Tip: Use Rakuten for delivery orders to stack additional cashback.
Comparing Costs: With vs. Without Cashback Apps
Let’s say you enjoy one plant-based meal at each chain in a week. Here’s how the math works out:
| Meal | Spend Without Cashback | Cashback with Fluz + Rakuten + Ibotta |
| Panera Bread | $10.00 | Fluz: ~$1.00 + Ibotta: ~$0.25 = $1.25 back |
| Chipotle | $10.50 | Fluz: ~$1.05 + Rakuten delivery: ~$0.50 + Ibotta: ~$0.50 = $2.05 back |
| Shake Shack | $9.00 | Fluz: ~$0.72 + Rakuten delivery: ~$0.45 = $1.17 back |
| Total | $29.50 | ~$4.47 cashback |
That’s over 15% back just by using the right apps — a smart move for plant-based eaters looking to stretch their budget.
Stackable Savings: How to Get the Most from Fluz, Rakuten, and Ibotta
- Fluz: Start by purchasing a Fluz gift card for your chosen restaurant. You earn cashback instantly when you use it at checkout.
- Rakuten: If ordering delivery, activate Rakuten before placing your order for additional cashback.
- Ibotta: Scan your restaurant receipt with Ibotta to collect extra cashback on select menu items or general dining bonuses.
Pro Tip: Plan your week in advance and pre-load Fluz gift cards to lock in your savings early.
For more smart dining tips and plant-based meal inspiration, check out Daily Bite, your go-to source for affordable, flavor-forward eats.
Eat Plant-Based, Spend Smart
Healthy, plant-powered meals and smart budgeting are no longer at odds. With Fluz, Rakuten, and Ibotta working together, you can enjoy your favorite plant-based dishes while earning cashback along the way. Every dollar you save is a dollar you can reinvest into more fresh, nutritious meals.
Ready to get rewarded for eating well? Download Fluz today and start saving on your plant-based favorites.
