Food Service

Mexico vegan

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Latin America Sees a 21.6% Increase in Vegan-Friendly Restaurants

Veganuary has partnered with vegan food discovery platform HappyCow to launch its third-ever rankings of the Latin American countries and cities with the most vegan restaurant options. The study reveals that there are now over 10,000 vegan, vegetarian, and vegan-friendly restaurants in Latin America, up by more than 1,700 compared to 2023. This represents an increase of 21.6%. Rankings by country Brazil takes the top spot in the country rankings with 2,953 vegan-friendly restaurants. Mexico has only 33 fewer, and also has the highest number of fully vegan restaurants. Colombia is in third place, followed by Chile. The latter has seen a huge 27.7% increase in vegan-friendly restaurants, with almost 200 new options added last year. Argentina, Peru, Ecuador, Uruguay, Bolivia, and Paraguay make up …

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TiNDLE PLNT burger collaboration

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TiNDLE Foods Partners with PLNT Burger to Feature Plant-Based Chicken on East Coast Menus

TiNDLE Foods has announced a partnership with PLNT Burger, an all-vegan burger chain co-founded by chef Spike Mendelsohn and entrepreneur Seth Goldman, to feature TiNDLE’s plant-based chicken in key menu offerings. Starting this January, TiNDLE Chicken will be the primary plant-based chicken used in the Crispy Chik’n Sandwich and Spicy Chik’n Sandwich across all 13 PLNT Burger locations on the East Coast of the United States. Spike Mendelsohn, PLNT Burger’s co-founder and culinary director, told vegconomist, “Our new Tindle fried chicken sandwich is absolutely delicious and nutritious! Working with the Tindle team has been nothing short of amazing, as they truly understand what the consumer is looking for out of plant-based products.” TiNDLE Foods, which launched its plant-based chicken products in US retail in late …

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Harvester Garden Gourmet Sensational Vegan Pulled Fillet

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GARDEN GOURMET’s Sensational Vegan Pulled Fillet Launches at Harvester & Butlin’s

Nestlé-owned plant-based meat brand GARDEN GOURMET has announced that its Sensational Vegan Pulled Fillet is launching at two well-known UK chains — Harvester restaurants and Butlin’s seaside resorts. At Harvester, the Pulled Fillet is now available as part of various menu options, including tacos, flatbreads, and bowls. Meanwhile, Butlin’s has incorporated the fillet into its Chinese Noodle Soup. According to GARDEN GOURMET, the meat alternative is highly versatile and rich in both protein and fibre. “We’re always looking for ways to improve the dining experience for our guests, and the introduction of GARDEN GOURMET® Pulled Fillet is a fantastic addition to our menu,” said Greg Kusmierski, Senior Kitchen Manager at Buffet restaurants. “It’s a delicious plant-based protein that fits perfectly into our Chinese Noodle Soup …

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THIS Isn't Pork sausages launch in IKEA restaurants across the UK

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THIS™ Isn’t Pork Sausages Launch at IKEA Restaurants UK-Wide

Plant-based meat brand THIS™ has announced that its award-winning THIS Isn’t Pork Sausages are launching at 19 IKEA restaurants across the UK. The sausages will be served as part of IKEA’s new Veggie Sausage & Mash meal, which features three sausages with mashed potatoes, gravy, and a leek and cabbage mix. Costing just £4.95, the meal provides a sustainable option for IKEA customers to enjoy while they shop. IKEA announced in 2020 that 50% of the main meals offered in its restaurants and 80% of its packaged food would be plant-based by 2025. The retail giant has also been taking other measures to make plant-based food more accessible and affordable, including making some popular plant-based dishes cheaper than comparable meat-based products. “Two purpose-driven brands working …

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Tortilla X Beyond Meat

© Tortilla

Tortilla Becomes First Fast-Casual Chain in the UK to Launch Beyond Steak

Tortilla, a leading fast-casual Mexican restaurant chain in Europe, has announced a new collaboration with Beyond Meat to launch the Beyond Steak Chimichurri Burrito. The limited-time offering will be available at select Tortilla locations across the UK starting January 2, 2025, through February 6, 2025, or while supplies last. This new menu item is designed to offer a plant-based option for Veganuary, targeting meat eaters, flexitarians, and vegetarians alike. The Beyond Steak Chimichurri Burrito features Beyond Meat’s award-winning Beyond Steak, paired with a limited-edition chimichurri mayo, Mexican rice, pinto beans, guacamole, sweetcorn salsa, pickled onions, jalapenos, and tortilla chips—all wrapped in a warm flour tortilla. James Garland, food director at Tortilla, commented: “We’re proud to partner with Beyond Meat to be the first fast-casual restaurant …

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PLANT SHACK

© Jose Coello/PLANT SHACK

Spain’s PLANT SHACK to Open First UK Location After Signing Franchise Deal

Spanish fast-casual chain PLANT SHACK is set to open its first UK location in London after signing a franchise agreement with entrepreneur and investor Michael Vosc. PLANT SHACK was founded in 2019 by Sarah and Lee Brogden, both originally from the UK. The chain serves juices, smoothie bowls, coffee, and grab-and-go options, including toast, sandwiches, and poke bowls. Currently, PLANT SHACK has six locations across Spain in Altea, Albir, Santa Catalina, Palma City, Caja Major, and Calpe. The search for a suitable site in London is currently underway, and PLANT SHACK also has plans to expand further into the UK and other international markets. Making plants more accessible Recent figures indicate that vegan orders at UK quick-service restaurants increased by 56% in 2024, while vegetarian …

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Rebellyous Foods chicken nugs

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Rebellyous Foods Plant Based Chicken Now Available Nationwide Through Dot Foods

Rebellyous Foods, a Seattle-based plant-based meat company, has entered into a distribution partnership with Dot Foods, North America’s largest food industry redistributor. The collaboration is set to expand the availability of Rebellyous’ plant-based chicken products, including nuggets, tenders, and patties, across a broad network of foodservice establishments in the United States. Dot Foods operates a unique redistribution model, enabling suppliers to ship in smaller quantities while maintaining frequent deliveries. With over 5,020 distributors in its network and a turnaround time of 2-4 days on orders, Dot Foods offers flexibility to foodservice operators of all sizes. This model will allow Rebellyous Foods to reach customers ranging from independent restaurants to schools and large event venues. Kristie Middleton, chief relationship officer at Rebellyous Foods, commented on the …

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Beyond Meat and Wendy’s Georgia announce the launch of a new plant-based meat burger, the Wendy’s Plant Burger in all 19 Wendy’s locations across Georgia.

Beyond Meat Continues to Expand in Europe with Launch of Wendy’s Plant Burger in Georgia

Beyond Meat and Wendy’s Georgia announce the launch of a new plant-based meat burger — the Wendy’s Plant Burger — in all 19 Wendy’s locations across Georgia. The collaboration targets the growing demand for meat-free options in the country and marks a further step in the company’s expansion across Europe, where plant-based food sales have been rising, signaling an interest in sustainable alternatives to animal products. The company’s presence on the continent remains strong, with new products launching through retail and food service in the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Spain, Slovenia, Belgium, Italy, Romania, Austria, the Baltics, and Malta. Just last month, McPlant Nuggets made with Beyond Meat’s chicken rolled out to over 1,500 McDonald’s locations across France. “We’re proud to be partnering with Wendy’s …

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ProVeg South Africa has released the third annual edition of the Plant-Based-Friendly Fast-Food Franchise Ranking report, coinciding with World Vegan Month, to celebrate the global rise of veganism and, particularly in the country.

© ProVeg South Africa

South Africa’s Fast-Food Chains Expand Plant-Based Menus, Simply Asia Tops ProVeg’s Rankings

ProVeg South Africa has released the third annual edition of the Plant-Based-Friendly Fast-Food Franchise Ranking report, coinciding with World Vegan Month, to celebrate the rise of veganism in the country and globally. The new analysis shows ongoing interest and growth in plant-based offerings among South African quick-service restaurants (QSRs). A key finding is that plant-based menu options, including mains, sides, and desserts, have expanded compared to the previous two years, reflecting gastronomic innovations and growing consumer demand. The surge in plant-based options in food chains aligns with the overall growth of the national fast-food industry, which has seen a 41% increase in turnover from takeaways and fast-food outlets compared to 2019. According to the non-profit, QSRs are feeding more households country-wide than ever before, and more …

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Accor Group, the largest in Europe and the sixth worldwide emphasized the importance of plant-based eating to reduce the group's carbon footprint and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

© Accor Group

Europe’s Largest Hospitality Group, Accor Group, Expands Plant-Based Menus Across 5,500 Hotels, Aims for 50% Vegan by 2030

French multinational hospitality company Accor Group, the largest in Europe and the sixth worldwide, has highlighted the importance of plant-based eating to reduce the group’s carbon footprint and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. As part of its sustainability strategy, the group plans to offer plant-based options at all its hotels in the coming years, and it additionally targets having 50% of menu items plant-based by 2030, in line with the global “Good Food Feels Great” policy. The news was shared by Antonietta Varlese, Senior Vice President of Sustainability and Communication Accor Americas, who released a press release on social media, revealing that the company already offers plant-based options in 72% of its hotels in the Americas. “On World Vegan Day, celebrated today, we reflect on …

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Heura launches vegan chicken sandwich at Rodilla chain in Spain

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Heura Foods Launches Vegan Chicken Sandwich at 130+ Rodilla Restaurants Across Spain

Heura Foods and Spain’s Rodilla restaurant chain have joined forces to launch a new vegan chicken sandwich that will be available in 130 Rodilla outlets across Spain from 5 November. The sandwich is made with wholemeal bread, chickpea spread, vegan mayonnaise, Heura’s plant-based chicken, mustard, gherkins, and parsley. With this collaboration, Heura and Rodilla take another step forward in the transition towards a food model where sustainability and respect for animals are central, providing an inclusive option that adapts to the habits of an increasingly conscious society. In the words of Heura Foods CEO and co-founder Marc Coloma, this collaboration helps “accelerate the shift towards a healthier and more sustainable food system,” allowing vegans and non-vegans alike to enjoy a delicious alternative that contributes to …

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rebellyous spicy chicken

© Rebellyous Foods

Rebellyous Foods Launches Spicy Kickin’ Patty as Students Demand Bolder Plant-Based Flavors

Rebellyous Foods, a plant-based meat technology company, has introduced a new Spicy Kickin’ Patty designed for K-12 schools, restaurants, and foodservice providers. This spicy chicken patty alternative is an extension of the company’s plant-based chicken line, which includes nuggets, tenders, and patties. According to Symrise Insights, consumer demand for spicy flavor profiles in chicken sandwiches continues to grow, and restaurants are seeking to expand their menu options beyond classic items. Demand is particularly high among Gen Z, who seek bolder and spicier flavors, a trend noted by McCormick and Co., the company behind Frank’s Red Hot and Cholula. The new Spicy Kickin’ Patties are entirely plant-based and free from cholesterol, antibiotics, and hormones. They are designed to mirror the texture and taste of traditional chicken …

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Report ranks plant-based options at Canadian restaurant chains

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Report: Most Top Canadian Restaurant Chains Are Failing to Reduce Meat Consumption

A new report from World Animal Protection, titled Moving the Menu 2024, has found that most major Canadian restaurant chains are failing to offer adequate plant-based options. Additionally, none have set firm commitments to reduce meat consumption. Of the 23 chains ranked in the report, Chipotle came out on top with a B grade, based on its extensive plant-based options and policies promoting the benefits of plant-based eating. Some coffee chains, such as Starbucks and Tim Hortons, received a C but did not rank higher because they charge extra for plant-based milk. Fast food chains McDonald’s, Wendy’s, KFC, and Popeyes all received an F, the lowest possible grade. The report notes that while chains such as McDonald’s, A&W, and Tim Hortons have all trialed plant-based …

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WB Burgers Asia, the Japanese master franchisee of the American burger chain Wayback Burgers, has opened a new multi-brand, plant-based restaurant called "Next Restaurant" in Omotesando, Tokyo.

© WB Burgers Asia

New Vegan Restaurant by Wayback Burgers Asia Launches in Tokyo with Diverse Menu and Expansion Plans

WB Burgers Asia, the Japanese master franchisee of the American burger chain Wayback Burgers, has opened a new multi-brand, vegan restaurant called “Next Restaurant” in Omotesando, Tokyo. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of plant-based and gluten-free dishes, including bento boxes such as the Next Foie Gras Kalbi Bento, Next Short Rib Bento, Next Curry Bento, Next Pork Ginger Bento, and Next Beef Bowl Bento. There are also vegan pasta options such as bolognese and carbonara and vegan pizzas and cheesesteaks. To complement the menu, the company created “Niseko & Smoothie,” a new brand highlighting fresh fruits and vegetables sourced from farms in Hokkaido. An “unconventional” concept The new vegan restaurant, described as unconventional (a ghost kitchen), operates as a pick-up and delivery establishment with …

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Raisio Food Solutions' plant-based ready-to-use sauce with noodles on a white plate

© Raisio

Raisio Unveils New Plant-Based Offerings at SIAL 2024

Raisio, a Finnish food company with over eight decades of experience in health-focused, responsibly produced food, is set to showcase its latest plant-based innovations at SIAL 2024. Specializing in gluten-free oats and plant proteins, Raisio has earned a reputation in the oat industry and plant-based food sector as a provider of plant-based food solutions. Raisio launches shelf-stable plant-based Sauces for HoReCa At SIAL, Raisio will highlight its new Beanit® ready-to-use plant-based sauces, developed specifically for the B2B and HoReCa sectors. These sauces, made from fava beans and peas, offer a convenient solution for professional kitchens, as they are shelf-stable and can be used or heated with minimal preparation. The new products combine rich plant-based protein with flavorful sauces, designed to meet the growing demand for …

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Phil Thornborrow, QuornPro Director of Global Foodservice © QuornPro

New QuornPro Division to Provide Complete Menu Solutions for Food Service

QuornPro, the food service business unit for meat alternatives brand Quorn, has announced the launch of a new division. Called QuornPro Distribution Partners, the division will provide complete menu solutions for food service partners using a network of companies, creating opportunities for various emerging brands. The first collaboration is with free from meal solutions company Good it’s Gluten Free, which will make its products available for food service for the first time through QuornPro Distribution Partners. The divison’s first launch will be an allergen-free margherita pizza for schools, which has been co-developed by Good it’s Gluten Free and QuornPro’s culinary team. The product aims to cater to the 20% of children who are affected by food allergies, and features a crispy gluten-free base with sauce …

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Image courtesy of ProVeg

Netherlands: Supermarket Meat-Free Promotions Stagnate While Alt Meat Sales to Caterers Double

According to animal rights organisation Wakker Dier, the number of meat-free promotions available at Dutch supermarkets has barely increased for the third year in a row, remaining about the same on average. Additionally, there have been few reductions in meat promotions, with three available for every meat alternative offer. The organisation noted that there were discrepancies between retailers, with Aldi and Hoogvliet having reduced their meat-free promotions by 38% and 34% respectively. On the other hand, Jumbo has increased its vegetarian offers by 41%, and Spar saw the second-highest increase at 31%. Aldi runs 11 meat promotions for every meat-free offer, making it the worst-scoring supermarket in this area. Jumbo and Albert Heijn are tied in first place, with two meat promotions for every vegetarian …

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Veggie Grill by Next Level

@ Veggie Grill by Next Level

Next Level Burger Acquisition Inspires Veggie Grill’s Menu Revamp

Fast-casual chain Veggie Grill by Next Level, now operating under the ownership of Next Level Burger (NLB), is launching a new menu on August 14, marking the most significant update since its acquisition in January 2024.  The updated menu features five new burgers, two chik’n sandwiches, and a salad, all of which are existing favorites from NLB. This initiative is part of a larger strategy to standardize offerings across both brands, with a strong emphasis on health-conscious choices and organic produce—a shift Veggie Grill adopted following its acquisition. The new menu features a range of plant-based burgers, including the Signature Veggie Burger with a quinoa and mushroom patty, the SoCal Veggie Burger with tempeh bacon and special sauce, and the American ChzBurger, a classic option …

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Impossible Foods Impossible Quality Meats

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Impossible Foods Debuts First In-Person Foodservice Concept at XMarket in Chicago

Impossible Foods has announced the launch of its first foodservice industry concept, Impossible Quality Meats. The pop-up restaurant, located in the XMarket Food Hall in Uptown Chicago, will officially open on Tuesday, August 13, offering a range of plant-based dishes made from Impossible’s meat alternatives.  The Impossible Quality Meats menu will feature options like the Impossible Breakfast Sausage Sandwich, Impossible Asian Style Meatballs, and the Impossible Chicago Style Hot Dog, among others. For dessert, the pop-up will offer Oatly Soft Serve in flavors such as vanilla, chocolate, and a swirl of both. Peter McGuinness, president and CEO of Impossible Foods, explained the company’s motivation behind this new venture: “Impossible began as a foodservice brand, launching our flagship beef product in 2016 with some of the best …

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Plantega opens flagship kitchen for corporate catering

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New York’s Plantega Launches Flagship Kitchen for Corporate Catering and Events

Plantega, the New York brand offering turnkey plant-based deli-in-store solutions, has announced the launch of its first fully self-managed flagship kitchen. Called Plantega Kitchen & Catering (PKC), the kitchen will provide food for large group orders, corporate catering, and events across New York City. It has been launched in recognition of the fact that many meals in the city are consumed within offices, event venues, and other private institutions. Described as “highly tech-enabled”, PKC is optimized for both city-wide catering clients and local direct-to-consumer delivery. The launch follows a boom in workplace catering as workers increasingly return to the office. Plantega says PKC will allow organizations to serve options that are better for people and the planet, helping them reduce their food-related emissions. Additionally, the …

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