Nestlé expands further into plant-based market

Nestlé has announced its biggest move yet into the meat-free market, launching a new ‘cook from raw’ plant-based burger in Europe, and unveiling plans for the United States.

Wayne England, the head of Nestlé’s food business, said: “These new burgers don’t compromise on flavor, texture and cooking experience. They underline Nestlé’s increased focus on tasty, authentic plant-based food. We believe this trend is here to stay, as consumers look at different ways to enjoy and balance their protein intake and lower the environmental footprint of their diets.”

The Garden Gourmet Incredible Burger will launch in Europe from this April, first coming to Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Germany, The Netherlands, Norway and Sweden.

The Garden Gourmet Incredible Burger is 100 percent plant-based, with natural protein from soy and wheat. Natural plant extracts – beetroot, carrot, and bell pepper – help create the look of a beef burger before, during, and after cooking. The burger will be found in the chilled or frozen aisle, complementing Garden Gourmet’s existing range of products.

From this autumn, Nestlé will also roll out a ‘cook from raw’ plant-based burger in the United States under the Sweet Earthbrand, customised for the American consumer. Called the Awesome Burger, this new burger, to be sold fresh, is designed to complement Sweet Earth’s existing veggie-centric burgers sold today.

Many consumers recognise that less meat in their diet is good for them and for the planet, but plant-based meat alternatives often do not live up to their expectations, says a Nestlé spokesperson. “The new burgers allow even meat lovers to enjoy a veggie burger that hardly differs from a traditional burger. They even make the sizzling sound of a regular beef burger during cooking.”

As Wayne England added: “We’re proud of our ability to make healthy and sustainable food accessible to everyone through our trusted brands. This includes plant-based food products under our Garden Gourmet range in Europe and the Sweet Earthbrand in the U.S.“