UK plant-based meat brand THIS has launched what are claimed to be the first plant-based chicken thighs to be available in supermarkets across the country.
Described as “hyper-realistic”, the plant-based thighs combine three patent-pending technologies to replicate the complex three-dimensional structure of meat. Extrusion technology is used to give soy and fava bean protein a fibrous meat-like texture, olive oil-based fat provides juiciness, and a seaweed layer replicates the structure and texture of chicken skin.
The plant-based chicken thighs are sold in packs of four and can be pan-fried or oven-cooked. They are high in protein and fibre, and can be used in dishes such as traybakes, burgers, and curries.
“Reinventing plant-based dining”
THIS has already launched three other plant-based chicken products this year — shawarma, wings, and breasts. In 2023, the company introduced plant-based roast chicken with stuffing, which became the best-performing line in the entire category that year (IRI Temple Total Grocery (Chilled Meat Free) – 52 w/e 17.03.24). The product had a value rate of sale of 75.1, compared to 45.1 for the next best competitor.
In recent weeks, THIS has announced a collaboration with Pieminister to launch a pie made with THIS Isn’t Pork sausages. The company also appointed new CEO Mark Cuddigan in January, as founders Andy Shovel and Pete Sharman stepped down as co-CEOs.
“We’re reinventing the way people experience plant-based dining and we’re incredibly excited to share our latest product launch, THIS™ Isn’t Chicken Thighs,” said Cuddigan. “We’re on a mission to lead a revolution to change what people eat, to protect animals and the environment – and with our ridiculously delicious and nutritious plant-based food, we’ve got you covered with the ultimate plant-based chicken thigh.”
The new product will launch at Tesco stores UK-wide from May 13.
