GERMANY – RAPS, a leading supplier of the meat industry has launched new vegan barbecue products made from pea-protein in an effort to bring even more variety to the plant-based market that is currently in vogue.

The new products range from burger patties and bratwurst, to barbecue skewers and meatballs and promise “flavoursome, flame-grilled enjoyment”.

The German based company said the new products addresses the demands of manufacturers who want to expand their barbecue range with diverse, plant-based applications.

The launch is timely as meat-free products for vegans, vegetarians and flexitarians is one of the fastest-growing segments in the food industry.

According to a recent report by the Smart Protein Project, sales of plant-based alternative products in Germany increased by 97 per cent between 2018 and 2020.

Transition to meat-free products has however been limited by limited varieties to choose from and failure of some plant-based products to accurately mimic the qualities of conventional meat.

RAPS however say that when it comes to sensory characteristics, its new products are very similar to the originals, thus appealing to barbecue fans.

Product-specific firmness and texture can also be adjusted in the production process, and all recipes can be easily implemented with standard meat processing equipment.

“With new vegan recipes, we want to make barbecue enjoyment possible for everyone thanks to the versatility of pea protein,” says Josefine Schneider, product manager at RAPS.

In addition to the grill range, RAPS offers other vegan and vegetarian product concepts – for example, for wieners, cold cuts, schnitzel, vegetable and fresh spreads, fish fingers, meat and tuna salads.

Thanks to the manufacturer’s comprehensive portfolio, the products can be further individualised and refined with specific seasonings, marinades or dipping sauces.

Earlier, American agribusiness and food company Bunge announced an investment of AU$45.7 million (about US$35 million) in Australian Plant Proteins (APP), expanding its presence in the fast-growing sector and contributing to the development of the sector in Australia.

Bunge’s investment will allow APP to double the output of its plant protein isolates production by March 2022 and expand its reach as it will also become the startup’s exclusive distributor outside Australia.

Meanwhile, Bell Flavors & Fragrances has launched a portfolio of functional flavors to aid European manufacturers in mitigating specific off-notes, while creating a more neutral and appealing sensory profile in plant-based foods.

Targeting the growing market for plant-based high protein and sports nutrition products, Bell is also focusing on delivering authentic and natural masking profiles for high protein powder shakes and high protein bars.

Liked this article? Subscribe to Food Business Africa News, our regular email newsletters with the latest news insights from Africa and the World’s food and agro industry. SUBSCRIBE HERE