Nestlé enters marketplace for plant-based seafood options
Nestlé already offers a variety of plant-based products, including alternatives to burgers, ground beef, meatballs, sausages, cold cuts, chicken nuggets and chicken fillets
Nestle announced the launch of a plant-based alternative to tuna, the first step in the growing market for plant-based seafood alternatives.
The plant-based tuna alternative can be used in a variety of dishes such as salads, sandwiches and pizzas. It has the flaky texture and rich taste that make tuna a favorite in many meals.
Made from a combination of just six plant-based ingredients, it's high in nutritious pea protein, one of the most environmentally friendly sources of plant-based protein. It contains all the essential amino acids and is free of artificial colors or preservatives.
Stefan Palzer, Nestlé's Chief Technology Officer, said: “Sustainably produced vegetable seafood alternatives can help reduce overfishing and protect the biodiversity of our oceans. Our plant-based tuna alternative is delicious, nutritious, and high in protein. We're excited to bring this great product to market and other plant-based fish and shellfish alternatives are already in development. "
Nestlé developed the tuna alternative within 9 months, leveraging its in-depth knowledge of protein science and proprietary technologies. The company already offers a variety of plant-based products, including alternatives to burgers, ground beef, meatballs, sausages, cold cuts, chicken nuggets, and chicken fillets.
The products are developed by Nestlé Research in Switzerland and the special research and development centers for food in Germany and the USA. In order to increase the speed to market, products are quickly prototyped and tested in selected retail stores. First commercial batches are produced in Nestlé R&D facilities.
Eugenio Simioni, Market Manager for Nestlé Switzerland, said: “We are delighted to be launching this strategic expansion of Nestlé's plant-based offering in the Swiss market first. This is another example of Nestlé's innovative strength in Switzerland and the exceptional skills and expertise we have in this country in the food and nutrition sector. "
The product is initially introduced under the Garden gourmet Brand in Switzerland. The launch includes both the chilled product, available in a jar, and plant-based tuna sandwiches in select stores. Further rollout plans will be announced in due course.
