Plant-based sausages make their debut

Global food giant Nestlé is set to launch a number of plant-based sausages in Europe and the United States, claiming that the foodstuffs look, taste and cook like sausages should.

In Europe, the soy-based Garden Gourmet Incredible Sausage will be available in Bratwurst and Chorizo styles. It will launch in March in Austria, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden and Switzerland.

The United States (US) will see the pea protein-based Sweet Earth Sausage arrive on shelves at the beginning of April in three varieties, including Habanero Cheddar, Asian Ginger Scallion and Chik’n Apple.

The company will also launch a range of plant-based deli meats, which will be available in the US both in pre-packaged cases and fresh from the deli counter.

“After the huge success of our plant-based burgers and grounds, we’re now adding another favourite. These plant-based sausages really deliver on flavour and texture,” says Wayne England, head of Nestlé’s food business. “Their juiciness and firm bite mean you can cook and enjoy them any way you like, including grilling, roasting or pan-frying.”

England says Nestlé is committed to providing nutritious and sustainable plant-based options for consumers around the globe. “People are continuing to look for different ways to eat more healthily by diversifying their protein intake and lowering the environmental footprint of their diets.”

He says Garden Gourmet sausages are comprised of carefully chosen ingredients including soy, beetroot, carrots, peppers, rapeseed and coconut oils. “With 13 gm of plant-based protein, no cholesterol and around 40-percent less fat than a sausage made of pork, the Garden Gourmet sausage scores a B rating on the Nutri-score front of pack labelling system,” he says.

England maintains that the Garden Gourmet and Sweet Earth sausages have a lower environmental impact that a sausage made with meat. “Compared with a pork-based sausage, a soy-based version can account for roughly 90-percent less CO₂, 90-percent less water and 80-percent less land use. The packaging for the Garden Gourmet Incredible Sausage has also been designed to be fully recyclable.”

Nestlé recently announced its ambition to achieve zero net greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The company’s plans include the introduction of more plant-based food and beverages as well as to make all of its packaging recyclable or reusable by 2025.