The UK subsidiary of multinational cheese producer Bel Group has launched a new plant-based version of its popular Boursin soft cheese.
Available in the flavour Garlic & Herbs, the cheese alternative is said to replicate the taste and texture of dairy Boursin. It is suitable for a range of applications such as spreading on bread or adding to cooking.
Bel previously launched a plant-based Boursin product in 2021, available in both the UK and the US. However, the new version is said to have an improved taste and texture, along with updated packaging. While the original plant-based Boursin was sold in a plastic tub, the new version comes in the same foil-wrapped format as conventional Boursin.
“We’ve worked to ensure the flavour, texture, and packaging of new Boursin Plant-Based aligns with all the key purchase drivers that our shoppers expect from dairy Boursin,” said Anna Petsi, senior brand manager at Boursin. “Consumers tell us they really love the taste and texture.”
Innovative solutions
In 2020, Bel Group announced its intention to offer a plant-based version of each of its core brands. Since then, the company has launched dairy-free Babybel and The Laughing Cow products, saying it aims to generate half its revenues from plant-based and animal-free products by 2030.
In 2021, Bel launched Nurishh, its first dedicated plant-based brand. Available internationally, Nurishh offers alternatives to cheeses such as camembert, mozzarella, and feta. Last year, Bel partnered with biotech startup Climax Foods to develop a new generation of “zero compromise” plant-based cheeses using data science and artificial intelligence.
“Food is a key lever to address climate change, and we, at Bel, have a strong determination to explore new territories and develop innovative solutions that will define the future of food, for all,” said Cécile Béliot, CEO of the Bel Group, in 2023.
Boursin Plant-Based is now available to buy in the UK at an RRP of £2.99.