Nestlé to launch plant-based burgers

Nestlé plans to launch 'cook from raw' plant-based burgers in Europe and the United States to meet the rising demand for meat alternatives.

Many consumers recognise that reducing meat consumption has health and environmental benefits, but they want the same level of quality as traditional meat products.

The Garden Gourmet Incredible Burger is a 100% plant-based burger that features natural protein from soy and wheat, and Nestlé said it delivers a similar sensory experience as a traditional burger. Natural beetroot, carrot and bell pepper extracts help create the look of a beef burger, and it produces a sizzling sound during cooking.

Wayne England, Head of Nestlé's Food Business, said: "These new burgers don't compromise on flavour, 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 Incredible Burger will be available in Europe this month, first coming to Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Germany, The Netherlands, Norway and Sweden. Nestlé will roll out a similar plant-based burger, called the Awesome Burger, in the United States under the Sweet Earth brand later this year.

Both burgers are the result of collaboration between culinary chefs, alternative protein researchers and local food experts at both Garden Gourmet and Sweet Earth, the company said.

"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 Earth brand in the US," England said.

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