In this edition of FoodNavigator’s NPD trend tracker, we take a look at food giant Nestlé’s expansion in the plant-based and lactose-free space, a limited edition plant-based ‘chicken’ katsu curry, and the launch of an alcohol-free beer made with fungi.
In this edition of FoodNavigator’s NPD trend tracker, we take a look at food giant Nestlé’s expansion in the plant-based and lactose-free space, a limited edition plant-based ‘chicken’ katsu curry, and the launch of an alcohol-free beer made with fungi.
Pic: GettyImages/Sergey_Nivens
Swiss food giant Nestlé is expanding its range of plant-based and lactose-free products for the growing number of consumers following a dairy-free or vegan diet.
This month in the US, for example, the company is preparing to launch Starbucks non-dairy creamers. And next month, Nestlé will bring a vegan Carnation condensed milk alternative to supermarket shelves in the UK.
A range of non-dairy cheese is also on the cards, the FMCG revealed, to ‘complement its existing plant-based burgers’.
While Nestlé has not published formulation and ingredients specifics concerning these new products, it did say that plant-based products made from pea protein is a ‘key focus’ area.
The company recently launched its first fully pea-based beverage under its Nesfit brand in Brazil. “Peas are one of the most environmentally friendly sources of plant-based protein, but when used alone, it can be challenging to turn them into a great-tasting beverage,” said Swen Rabe, head of Nestlé’s R&D Center in Konolfingen, Switzerland.
“By using our proprietary technologies, as well as our expertise in creating shelf-stable dairy products, we were able to develop a delicious pea-based beverage with a reduced sugar content when compared to similar products in the market.”
Fungtn says it is the first myco adaptogenic alcohol free beer to launch in the UK.
Myco adaptogens are a class of fungi known for their health benefits. They have been used in medicine for thousands of years and have no psychedelic properties.
Fungtn’s three new SKUs feature different myco adaptogens. The range includes: a Lion’s Mane IPA with neurotrophic benefits; an immunity-boosting Reishi Citra Beer; and a Chaga Lager with antioxidant properties to help fight free radicals.
According to the brewery, the myco adaptogens also enhance the depth and body of the beer. This can result in a ‘fuller viscosity’ and ‘classic beer mouth feel’ that Fungtn said is not usually associated with alcohol-free beers.
“Myco adaptogens have a complex, delicate flavour that blends well into drinks, without the beer tasting of mushrooms,” noted the brewery.
Fungtn founder Zoey Henderson said she was excited to be launching the brand this summer. “Medicinal mushrooms have been used for thousands of years, and while they are still a relatively new concept here in the UK, more and more people are discovering them for their ability to boost immunity and brain power.
“Mindful drinkers are no longer just looking for products that simply mimic the flavour of alcohol, but instead are actively seeking out NoLo drinks that put a little extra into our bodies, performing a functional benefit whilst also tasting great.”
THIS has teamed with allplants to bring a limited edition vegan ready meal to UK audiences: THIS Isn’t Chicken Katsu Curry.
The plant-based ready meal is served with a sauce made from turmeric, clove and giner, alongside carrots and caramelised onions. According to the partnership, it is ‘velvety, mellow and moreish’.
The dish is packed out with edamame and pak choi, before being flash frozen and delivered to consumers’ doors via allplants’ D2C delivery model.
“Step aside Wagamama,” noted the firms, “we’re half the price, half the calories and all of the taste”. Each serve contains 459kcal. It is high in iron, low in sugar, and provides a source of protein, B12, and vitamin C.
“We’ve finally found our perfect Katsu Curry match,” said allplants founder Alex Petrides. “The UK wants plant-based food without the sacrifice, a quick, affordable and healthier alternative to takeaway. THIS Isn’t Chicken Katsu Curry delivers on all three.”
Although trick-or-treating may look very different this year, Ferrero is preparing for Halloween with the launch of eight limited-edition toys, including Halloween-themed, glow-in-the-dark characters.
The Italian chocolate maker is also rebranding its Crunch, Butterfinger and Baby Ruth products for the event.
These include Harvest Minis, Assorted Mix, and Boo Bag products. In the Kinder range, Ferrero is launching Spooky Eggs, Kinder Joy Original Eggs, as well as 4-packs.
Kind has released a new flavour: salted caramel dark chocolate.
The bar is made from ingredients including caramel, dark chocolate, peanuts, almonds, cashews, pecans, and Brazilian sea salt. High in fibre, and gluten free, the product comes in at 211kcal per 40g bar.
In total, the bar contains 58% nuts, which contributes to its 6.1g of protein per serving.
A box of 12 salted caramel dark chocolate Kind bars are available online for £15.
