McDonald’s has said it is to start selling a vegan burger in the UK and Ireland after years of research to perfect it. The “McPlant” burger will be trialled in 10 of their restaurants from late September and go national next year.
The launch lags behind rival fast food chains, such as Greggs with its vegan sausage roll and Burger King with a soy-based Rebel Whopper. However, McDonald’s said it took its time with their vegan option, as they wanted to ensure it met the highest standards.
What is a McPlant?
The McPlant burger will be made up of a patty supplied by Beyond Meat, vegan cheese, mustard, ketchup, onion, pickles, lettuce and tomato in a vegan sesame bun.
The fast food giant spent three years researching and testing different burgers and cheeses. It eventually decided on a slice based on pea protein to try to match the restaurant’s usual ingredients.
“We’re so pleased to be finally launching McPlant in the UK and Ireland,” said Michelle Graham-Clare, Chief Marketing Officer of McDonald’s UK and Ireland.”As with every McDonald’s offering, we take our time to ensure it meets the highest standards and is something that all our customers will enjoy.” He ensured.
The McPlant burger is also fully accredited as vegan by the Vegetarian Society. Unlike some of the brands fast food rivals, McDonald’s will prepare the McPlant burger separately with dedicated utensils.
While the Vegan Society estimates that there are “about 600,000 vegans” in Britain, research conducted by the British Nutrition Foundation and YouGov in 2020 found that 61% of UK adults surveyed were unlikely to switch to a plant-based diet.
Barclays Bank forecasts that consumption of meat alternatives might be worth $140bn (£106bn) by 2029.
Many brands have committed to offering “vegan-friendly” options as their customers become more aware of the environmental impact their food choices can make. We are sure the brand will continue to develop a range of vegan-friendly staples, only time will tell.
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