Polly Foreman, Author at Plant Based News https://plantbasednews.org/author/polly-foreman/ Changing the conversation Wed, 16 Apr 2025 11:05:30 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.4 https://plantbasednews.org/app/uploads/2020/10/cropped-pbnlogo-150x150.png Polly Foreman, Author at Plant Based News https://plantbasednews.org/author/polly-foreman/ 32 32 Nush Unveils Vegan Yogurt With 23g Protein Per Pot https://plantbasednews.org/lifestyle/food/nush-vegan-yogurt-high-protein/ https://plantbasednews.org/lifestyle/food/nush-vegan-yogurt-high-protein/#respond Wed, 16 Apr 2025 11:04:08 +0000 https://plantbasednews.org/?p=353355 Nush’s yogurts are free from both dairy and soy

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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Nush has relaunched its almond milk-based yogurt range with a brand-new, higher-protein recipe.

The protein content of each yogurt pot ranges from 16g to 23g per 350g. All are free from both dairy and soy, and are suitable for vegans. The yogurts come in six flavors: strawberry, raspberry, blueberry, vanilla fudge (a brand-new addition), and natural.

The natural flavor packs the highest protein content, while raspberry contains the lowest. All yogurt pots are now available to buy from Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, Ocado, Marks & Spencer, Planet Organic, Whole Foods Market, and select independent health stores. They are priced at £3.25 for a 350g pot and £1.90 for a 120g pot.

Read more: Tiba Tempeh Launches New Smoky Block As Distribution Expands

The UK’s ‘first-ever’ high-protein, soy-free yogurt?

Nush foudner Bethany Eaton
Nush Former police officer Bethany Eaton founded Nush in 2016

Nush Foods is a UK-based dairy-free brand founded in 2016 by former London police officers Bethany and Paul Eaton. Motivated by Bethany’s personal health journey and her background in nutrition, the couple set out to create a plant-based yogurt alternative that matched the taste and texture of traditional dairy products. They began by crafting almond milk yogurts in their kitchen, eventually launching Nush as the UK’s first producer of nut milk yogurts.

The new range is believed to be the first high-protein, soy-free vegan yogurt available in the UK. The products are said to be creamier, tastier, and more nutritious than previous versions.

Read more: You Can Now Buy Lion’s Mane Mushrooms In UK Supermarkets

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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Just Egg Is Coming To The UK And EU https://plantbasednews.org/news/economics/just-egg-is-coming-to-the-uk-and-eu/ https://plantbasednews.org/news/economics/just-egg-is-coming-to-the-uk-and-eu/#respond Tue, 15 Apr 2025 08:08:33 +0000 https://plantbasednews.org/?p=353159 The hugely popular US egg alternative will arrive in Europe very soon

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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The “number one” plant-based egg in America will soon be arriving in Europe amid growing demand for vegan alternatives on the continent.

UK-based company Vegan Food Group (VFG) has collaborated with San Francisco food tech brand Eat Just to secure exclusive European rights to its flagship product, Just Egg. The product, which is currently seeing skyrocketing sales in the US, will be manufactured at VFG’s site in Lüneburg, Germany, later this year. VFG, which also owns Meatless Farm, VFC, Tofutown, and Clive’s Purely Plants, will be investing £11.5M (USD $15.2M) into manufacturing and distributing Just Egg.

VFG chairman Matthew Glover said he was “thrilled” to be bringing this “game-changing” product to the UK and EU for the first time. “This partnership is a huge leap forward in transforming plant-based food across Europe,” he added. “Welcome to the future of eggs. No chickens required.”

Read more: Tiba Tempeh Launches New Smoky Block As Distribution Expands

What is Just Egg?

A packet of JUST Egg next to some vegan scrambled egg
Eat Just Just Egg can be used in place of traditional eggs in a variety of recipes

Just Egg is a realistic egg alternative product made from mung beans. It’s free from cholesterol and is typically sold in liquid form, allowing it to be poured directly into a pan and cooked like traditional eggs. It’s designed to replicate the texture and function of scrambled eggs, and is commonly used in breakfast dishes, baking, and other recipes that call for eggs.

Earlier this year, it was reported that Just Egg is becoming increasingly mainstream in the US due to rising prices of traditional eggs. The bird flu outbreak has caused egg shortages and record prices in recent months. This led Just Egg sales to soar at five times the rate of the year before. 

Europe has a large plant-based market, so it’s likely that Just Egg’s arrival on the continent will see sales rise even further. “European consumers clearly desire innovative, sustainable food options, and collaborating with VFG is key to meeting that demand effectively,” Eat Just co-founder Josh Tetrick told The Grocer. “This investment in the Lüneburg facility represents a crucial step towards making high-quality plant-based egg alternatives widely accessible to our global audience.”

Read more: Pinky Cole Hayes Announces Buy-Back Of Slutty Vegan

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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Under Armour Launches Compostable Plant-Based Sportswear https://plantbasednews.org/lifestyle/fashion/under-armour-plant-based-sportswear/ https://plantbasednews.org/lifestyle/fashion/under-armour-plant-based-sportswear/#respond Mon, 14 Apr 2025 11:00:00 +0000 https://plantbasednews.org/?p=353039 These clothes can be buried in your backyard

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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Under Armour has launched a collection of fully plant-based athletic wear in collaboration with regenerative fashion company UNLESS. 

The limited-edition capsule, unveiled at Milan Design Week earlier this month, features hoodies, t-shirts, and shorts made entirely from regenerative plant-based materials – and they’re even fully compostable. 

Each piece is made without synthetics or plastics. Once worn out, the garments can be buried in the earth without leaving behind microplastics or toxic residues.

“This is just the beginning – the next evolution of sportswear made for athletes and built for the planet,” the two brands said in a joint statement. 

Read more: Fur Production Has Plummeted To Lowest Level In Years

A compostable plant-based sports jacket from Under Armour
Under Armour The clothes are made from entirely plant-based ingredients

This marks the first major product launch from UNLESS since it was acquired by Under Armour. Founded in 2020 by former Adidas executive Eric Liedtke, UNLESS is thought to be the world’s first plant-based, zero-plastic regenerative fashion brand. In line with its commitment to a plastic-free future, it creates clothing and footwear using natural materials that can be safely returned to the environment after being worn. 

The collection

The collection draws inspiration from skate, surf, and outdoor cultures, according to Under Armour. Despite being biodegradable, the garments are built to meet everyday durability standards.

The plant-based capsule collection is available exclusively at the Under Armour Brand House in Baltimore. Prices range from $30 to $160. We don’t yet know if or when the products will be available to buy online or elsewhere.

Read more: UGG Announces Launch Of Vegan Boots 

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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Tiba Tempeh Launches New Smoky Block As Distribution Expands https://plantbasednews.org/lifestyle/food/tiba-tempeh-smoky-block/ https://plantbasednews.org/lifestyle/food/tiba-tempeh-smoky-block/#respond Wed, 09 Apr 2025 14:33:44 +0000 https://plantbasednews.org/?p=352683 Tiba Tempeh is going from strength to strength

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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Tiba Tempeh, which was named the fastest-growing meat-free brand earlier this year, has just announced the launch of a new Smoky Tempeh Block.

The block is infused with a smoky marinade and can be used in a variety of dishes, including stir-fries, sandwiches, and pastas. It will be available on Ocado from April 18 and in Waitrose and Sainsbury’s at the end of the month. The 220g product, which retails at £3.00, is a new addition to Tiba Tempeh’s growing plant-based range, which also includes an Original Block and Sweet Chilli Pieces.

“We’re so excited to launch our new Smoky Tempeh as a natural extension to our best-selling Original Block,” said Alexandra Longton, cofounder of Tiba Tempeh, in a statement. “We’ve crafted the tastiest protein-packed tempeh,
which we know consumers will love. We think this is the tastiest tempeh on the market, and we can’t wait for people to try it.”

Read more: Pinky Cole Hayes Announces Buy-Back Of Slutty Vegan

Tiba Tempeh expands

Tiba Tempeh founders Ross and Alexandra Longton
Tiba Tempeh Tiba Tempeh was founded in 2019 by Ross and Alexandra Longton

The product launch coincides with increased retail distribution for the brand. From April 30, Waitrose will carry three of Tiba Tempeh’s products – Original Block, Sweet Chilli Pieces, and Smoky Block – in over 200 stores for the first time. The brand will appear under Waitrose’s “BrandsNew” platform, which highlights emerging brands in the food space. “We are delighted to be working with Waitrose to bring more naturally delicious and nutritious plant-based options to even more consumers,” Longton said.

Tiba Tempeh is currently the UK’s largest tempeh-only brand and has seen rapid growth despite a downturn in the overall meat-free category. The brand reports a 736 percent year-on-year increase in retail sales value, representing a £1.2 million (USD $1.5 million) rise over the past year. Longton attributes the growth to increasing consumer demand for minimally processed alternatives to conventional meat substitutes.

Read more: Vegan Restaurant Unity Diner To Return

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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Pinky Cole Hayes Announces Buy-Back Of Slutty Vegan https://plantbasednews.org/news/economics/pinky-cole-hayes-buy-back-slutty-vegan/ https://plantbasednews.org/news/economics/pinky-cole-hayes-buy-back-slutty-vegan/#respond Tue, 08 Apr 2025 20:00:00 +0000 https://plantbasednews.org/?p=352620 Pinky Cole Hayes is still the owner of Slutty Vegan

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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Pinky Cole Hayes has announced that she has bought back her hugely popular restaurant chain, Slutty Vegan, after briefly losing the business earlier this year. 

Cole Hayes, who founded Atlanta-based Slutty Vegan in 2018, said that “cash-flow issues” over the past year and a half led to her losing the business, leading to what she called the “toughest experience” of her life. 

“In 2023, my corporate overhead was $10 million. I was profitable at the unit level. I did double-digit millions last year in revenue. But when you look at my balance sheet, there’s a lot of debt there,” she told Forbes. “And because the market is so volatile, people really don’t want to just expend their money in situations like this.”

Slutty Vegan founder Pinky Cole cleaning the shop front of her Atlanta branch
Associated Press / Alamy Stock Photo Pinky Cole Hayes founded Slutty Vegan in Atlanta in 2018

Cole Hayes added that she fought for her company for a year and bankrolled it herself before surrendering. She lost the company for just over a month before eventually managing to buy it back again. “I’m happy that I have it again,” she said. “Because it’s rightfully mine. And I know that it deserves to be a billion-dollar brand.”

Read more: Slutty Vegan Founder Pinky Cole Hayes Opens New Bar Vegan Branch

‘I went through every emotion imaginable’

Opening up about the experience in a recent Instagram video, Cole Hayes said that the company went through a global restructure in February. She added that she went through “every emotion imaginable” when trying to save the business. Addressing her followers on camera, Cole Hayes teased that they should “show up for the new owner” and encouraged them to swipe to the next video to find out who it was. The follow-up clip revealed Cole Hayes herself walking into her restaurant.

Since opening seven years ago, Slutty Vegan has expanded to a dozen locations in the South and Southeast of the USA. It specializes in plant-based burgers, with each being given a tongue in cheek name like “Fussy Hussy” and “One Night Stand.”

Read more: The Surprising Strategy Behind Slutty Vegan’s $100 Million Success

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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The Happy Egg Co Hit With ‘Landmark’ CMA Complaint https://plantbasednews.org/news/economics/the-happy-egg-co-cma-complaint/ https://plantbasednews.org/news/economics/the-happy-egg-co-cma-complaint/#respond Tue, 08 Apr 2025 16:20:56 +0000 https://plantbasednews.org/?p=352597 The Happy Egg Co has once again come under fire for its marketing

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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The Happy Egg Co has been accused of misleading customers about hen welfare standards in a new complaint made to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA).

The complaint, made by animal welfare non-profit A Bit Weird, was lodged on April 7 – the same day the CMA was granted new consumer protection powers. Under the new powers, the CMA has authority determine if key consumer protection laws have been breached without going through courts. This means that it’s able to “act more swiftly and directly to protect UK consumers.” According to A Bit Weird, this marks the complaint as a “landmark.”

The Happy Egg Co and marketing

The Happy Egg Co, which is owned by British food supplier Noble Foods, is one of the UK’s largest “free-range” egg producers. It’s known for its depictions of seemingly well-cared-for chickens living in green fields with lots of space. According to the complaint, The Happy Egg Co’s marketing and imagery of its farms is at odds with the reality for many hens that provide its eggs.

Examples cited in the complaint include The Happy Egg Co’s claim that it provides “calming and enriching environments” for hens. This is despite previous investigations documenting overcrowded conditions on farms with limited enrichment items. 

Marketing materials for The Happy Egg Co tend to show healthy and fully-feathered hens. Investigations, however, have uncovered “injuries, feather loss, and beak trimming” affecting some Happy Egg hens, according to A Bit Weird. Beak trimming is standard practice in the UK egg industry.

Other allegations include misleading use of the slogan “Happiness First” to refer to hens, and claims that hens have “lots of room to roam, relax and play.”

In response to the complaint, a spokesperson for Noble Foods told Plant Based News: “We strongly refute these allegations which do not reflect the conditions on our farms or the values of our brand. We are committed to ensuring transparency with our consumers, and work closely with our farmers to ensure they meet our stringent welfare standards, with each farm independently audited by third parties including the RSPCA Assured.

“The welfare of our hens is our highest priority, and each hen has daily access to ranges, for eight hours or more, and our ranges provide a minimum of 20 percent tree cover, which is significantly above free-range standards. We also provide enriching indoor environments with perches and toys, and all housing meets or exceeds RSPCA Assured standards.”

Read more: ‘The Drew Barrymore Show’ Features Segment On Egg Alternatives

Is The Happy Egg Co ‘duping British consumers?’

Hens in a crowded barn on a farm supplying The Happy Egg Co
PETA Investigations have uncovered hens living in cramped barns on farms supplying The Happy Egg Co

This isn’t the first time The Happy Egg Co has come under fire for its marketing. In May 2024, animal rights charity Animal Justice Project filed a complaint with the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) over the company’s allegedly “misleading” TV, radio, and internet adverts. 

In October, Veganuary founder Matthew Glover accused the company of “welfarewashing” after an advert featuring actor and farmer Kelvin Fletcher stated that hens in a lush green field “certainly do look very happy.” 

A 2021 investigation by PETA documented conditions on three farms supplying The Happy Egg Co. Birds were kept in large, overcrowded sheds, which investigators said could prevent them from engaging in natural behaviors like foraging, flapping their wings, and roosting comfortably. Birds were also subjected to mutilations like debeaking. 

Many people believe that “free-range” farms house birds in green fields, but the reality is often very different. At one of the farms investigated, the outdoor space was a “bare, muddy ground with only a few dilapidated wooden shelters,” according to PETA. 

Speaking about the new CMA complaint, A Bit Weird founder Andy Shovel said: “74 percent of UK adults consider animal welfare when they decide which groceries to buy, so it’s unsurprising that brands try to tap into this huge driver of purchase intent. But we believe that The Happy Egg Co is duping British consumers with cartoons of lush green meadows and smiling hens that are jumping for joy, when the reality is quite grisly. That’s just a bit weird.”

To coincide with the complaint, A Bit Weird has launched a petition calling for The Happy Egg Co to change its name. You can sign the petition here

Read more: Brits Being ‘Systematically Misled’ About Meat, Dairy, And Eggs, Study Finds

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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Vegan Restaurant Unity Diner To Return https://plantbasednews.org/news/economics/unity-diner-return/ https://plantbasednews.org/news/economics/unity-diner-return/#respond Tue, 01 Apr 2025 08:55:20 +0000 https://plantbasednews.org/?p=352100 Unity Diner closed down earlier this year

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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Unity Diner has announced that it will be making a comeback just two months after shutting its doors. 

The vegan restaurant, which is situated in east London, will start welcoming customers again from this Friday (April 5).

“In December last year we just couldn’t see a way in which we could possibly continue,” the diner wrote on Instagram. “However, we are beyond thrilled to say that after on-going negotiations with our landlords throughout the past couple of months, alongside investment from one of our co-founders, we’re relaunching with a fresh energy, and a new menu.”

As well as “UD classics” like Tofish and Chips and Mac and Cheese, the menu will also feature new options including a vegan carvery on Sundays.  

Unity Diner was founded by activist and author Earthling Ed (real name Ed Winters) in 2018. In a statement to Plant Based News, Winters confirmed that he will be stepping back from the restaurant to focus on other projects.

“The support of the community throughout January was absolutely incredible and completely blew all of us away,” Winters said. “We’re so grateful for the support and kindness that we received and I am delighted that we have been able to work with the landlords. I am thrilled to say that this means that Unity Diner is going to be reopening and will be beginning a new and exciting chapter.”

Read more: Vivera Buys The Vegetarian Butcher From Unilever

Unity Diner returns

Unity Diner closed its doors at the start of February, citing rising costs. Following the closure announcement, the restaurant received huge support from the vegan community, alongside donations to Surge Sanctuary, which it supports. 

“Our ethos remains the same – we’re here to provide great vegan food, spread awareness for animals and raise funds for @thesurgesanctuary,” the restaurant said. “But we can’t do it without you! Only with your continued support can we make this work and keep this space thriving for the vegan community and the sanctuary.”

Read more: UK’s ‘Fastest-Growing’ Meat-Free Brand Tiba Tempeh Secures £1.1 Million In Funding

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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Califia Farms Launches New Fruity Drinks Made With Coconut Cream https://plantbasednews.org/lifestyle/food/califia-farms-fruity-drinks-coconut-cream/ https://plantbasednews.org/lifestyle/food/califia-farms-fruity-drinks-coconut-cream/#respond Fri, 28 Mar 2025 11:30:00 +0000 https://plantbasednews.org/?p=351953 Califia Farms has added more dairy-free drinks to its collection

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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US dairy alternative brand Califia Farms has just announced the launch of new fruity coconut cream-based drinks with reduced sugar content. 

They are available in four flavors: Piña colada, Key Lime Colada, Strawberry Creme, and Orange Creme. The drinks aren’t alcoholic, but they can be used as mixers. Califia Farms has partnered with 818, the tequila brand founded by Kendall Jenner, for a promotional event at Coachella festival next month. 

“Today’s consumer embraces mindful indulgences, and we’re proud to bring a new little sweet treat to retail shelves,” said Suzanne Ginestro, chief marketing officer at Califia Farms, in a statement. 

Califia Farms Califia Farms Strawberry Creme Refresher and Key Lime Colada Refresher

According to Califia Farms, each drink contains up to 50 percent less sugar than comparable juices. They RRP at $5.99 each. 

Read more: Better Nature Launches Tempeh With Comparable Protein To Chicken

Califia Farms expands

This is the latest in a long line of new launches from Califia Farms. In the last year, it has introduced organic plant-based creamers, “complete” kid-friendly milk, and most recently 3-ingredient plant-based milk

Califia Farms, founded in 2010 by Greg Steltenpohl in partnership with a San Joaquin Valley farmer’s co-op, is a Los Angeles-based company specializing in plant-based beverages. It makes a wide variety of vegan milks, using ingredients like oats, almonds, cashews, and coconut. 

Earlier this year, Califia Farms chief executive officer Dave Ritterbush said that he doesn’t believe the word “alternative” is suitable for dairy-free drinks anymore. 

“Plant-based milks aren’t alternative anymore,” he told Food Business News. “We are just seeing more and more households buying in. The average consumer used to be defined as urban, younger and more educated, but it’s now spread well beyond that group. We see market penetration across all 50 states. Yes, there is more development on the coasts of the United States, but, really, it’s mainstream.”

Read more: Magnum Announces Major Change to Vegan Ice Cream Recipe

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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Majority Of Veganuary 2025 Participants Plan Permanent Diet Change https://plantbasednews.org/lifestyle/food/veganuary-2025-permanent-diet-change/ https://plantbasednews.org/lifestyle/food/veganuary-2025-permanent-diet-change/#respond Fri, 21 Mar 2025 14:00:00 +0000 https://plantbasednews.org/?p=351242 Veganuary has seen another successful year

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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More than 80 percent of Veganuary 2025 participants are planning to make significant permanent changes to their diets, a new survey has found. 

Veganuary, which was established in the UK in 2014 by Jane Land and Matthew Glover, is now a global organization that challenges people to go plant-based for the month of January. Participants from every single country in the world, except for North Korea, have taken part in Veganuary. Many go on to dramatically reduce or eliminate meat, dairy, and eggs from their diets for good. 

This year, millions of people took part in Veganuary. Around 81 percent of participants plan significant permanent dietary changes, according to a survey carried out by Veganuary. Almost one third (31 percent) plan to remain plant-based, while around three-quarters (72 percent) plan to at least halve their intake of animal products. Ninety-one percent said that they were “very” or “extremely” likely to try a plant-based diet in the future. 

“These incredible results show that Veganuary is so much more than a one-month pledge as taking part leads to lasting diet change for most participants,” said Veganuary’s Toni Vernelli in a statement. “Veganuary really is driving positive change for animals, people, and the planet.” 

Read more: British TV Asks ‘Why Is The NHS Promoting Veganuary?’

A woman eating some vegan bruchetta
Adobe Stock Many Veganuary participants find it easier than expected to go plant-based

People also reported their reasonings for staying plant-based. Learning about veganism was the most popular response at 26 percent, followed by improved health (19 percent), and finding it easier than expected (19 percent). Forty-five percent of participants said they saw improvements in their health, while 98 percent said they’d recommend the challenge to a friend. 

Motivations for trying Veganuary

When questioned about their motivations for taking on the plant-based challenge, almost half (47 percent) said animals were their number one priority. Personal health was the second most common answer (20 percent), followed by the environment (14 percent). Other reasons included wanting a change or challenge (seven percent), global health (six percent), and for a friend or loved one (four percent). 

Read more: Veganuary Participants More Likely To Become Disgusted By Meat, Study Finds

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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Vivera Buys The Vegetarian Butcher From Unilever https://plantbasednews.org/news/economics/vivera-buys-vegetarian-butcher-unilever/ https://plantbasednews.org/news/economics/vivera-buys-vegetarian-butcher-unilever/#respond Thu, 20 Mar 2025 17:08:10 +0000 https://plantbasednews.org/?p=351188 The Vegetarian Butcher has joined forces with Vivera

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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Plant-based brand Vivera has announced that it has acquired The Vegetarian Butcher from Unilever for an undisclosed sum.

The companies, which are both based in the Netherlands, specialize in vegan meat alternatives. According to Vivera, the brands “complement each other in many ways.” The Vegetarian Butcher has a strong presence in foodservice and quick-service restaurant channels, while Vivera’s branded and private-label products are widely available in retail.

“By combining these two companies, we create a purpose-driven business with highly motivated people,” said Vivera CEO Willem van Weede. “Accelerating the protein transition is more important than ever.”

Read more: Lidl and ProVeg Partner For Plant-Based Cheese Competition

A plant-based powerhouse

A selection of Vivera products on supermarket shelves
Vivera Vivera is widely available at supermarkets in Europe

Despite market fluctuations, plant-based foods continue to show strong long-term growth. Vivera has been making plant-based meat since 1990, and has played a key role in developing the market in the Netherlands. Alongside alternatives to salmon, mince, and kebab meat, Vivera also launched whole foods-based protein bites last year, catering to growing demand for minimally processed “clean label” products. Its products can be found in 32,000 supermarkets across 25 European countries. Vivera was acquired by JBS in 2021. 

The Vegetarian Butcher, which was founded in 2010 in Utrecht, was bought by Unilever in 2018. It was first reported that Unilever was considering selling the brand in September 2024. The British consumer goods giant worked with investment bank Piper Sandler to auction off The Vegetarian Butcher, after reportedly making the decision to focus on its major international brands like Hellmann’s and Ben & Jerry’s.

“I believe that The Vegetarian Butcher is poised for even greater success in the next phase of its journey under new ownership that is dedicated to plant-based meat replacements,” said Heiko Schipper, president of Unilever foods, in a statement. “This focused expertise will support the brand in its ambitious goal to become the ‘Biggest Butcher of the World’.”

The sale of The Vegetarian Butcher is expected to be completed by Q3 2025.

Read more: UK’s ‘Fastest-Growing’ Meat-Free Brand Tiba Tempeh Secures £1.1 Million In Funding

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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You Can Now Buy Lion’s Mane Mushrooms In UK Supermarkets https://plantbasednews.org/lifestyle/food/lions-mane-mushrooms-uk-supermarkets/ https://plantbasednews.org/lifestyle/food/lions-mane-mushrooms-uk-supermarkets/#respond Thu, 20 Mar 2025 15:17:00 +0000 https://plantbasednews.org/?p=351165 Lion’s mane mushrooms are increasingly becoming known for their apparent health benefits

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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Fresh lion’s mane mushrooms have officially launched in UK supermarkets, with packs available to buy in large Sainsbury’s stores now. 

Kent-based brand Urban Farm-It secured the listing for its 200g punnets of fluffy white individual mushrooms. They cost £5 a pack, and the punnet is fully recyclable. 

“Bringing this unique ingredient to consumers across the country is a huge milestone for us,” said Urban Farm-It founder Elliot Webb in a statement. “Lion’s mane is gaining recognition for its versatility in plant-based cooking, with its meaty texture making it an excellent alternative to seafood and meat.”

Read more: Better Nature Launches Tempeh With Comparable Protein To Chicken

What are the benefits of lion’s mane mushrooms?

A hand holding up a fluffy white lion's mane mushroom
Adobe Stock Lion’s mane mushrooms are renowned for their supposed health benefits

Lion’s mane mushrooms are still a relatively niche product in the UK, but they are growing in popularity due to their versatility and apparent links to improved brain health. A growing body of research indicates that they may support cognitive function by promoting nerve growth, which helps protect and regenerate brain cells. Some studies indicate they could aid memory, focus, and even reduce symptoms of mild cognitive impairment.

In addition to their possible health benefits, they are a popular ingredient in vegan cooking due to their meaty texture and ability to absorb flavors. They can be made into convincing meat alternatives, and are particularly known for being transformed into realistic plant-based steaks, a recipe made popular by plant-based chef Derek Sarno.

Read more: Juicy Marbles Unveils ‘Market First’ Plant-Based Pork Whole Cut

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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UK’s ‘Fastest-Growing’ Meat-Free Brand Tiba Tempeh Secures £1.1 Million In Funding https://plantbasednews.org/news/economics/tiba-tempeh-funding/ https://plantbasednews.org/news/economics/tiba-tempeh-funding/#respond Mon, 17 Mar 2025 22:00:00 +0000 https://plantbasednews.org/?p=350793 Tiba Tempeh has reportedly become the fastest growing chilled meat-free brand in the UK following a huge rise in sales

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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Tiba Tempeh has raised £1.1 million (USD $1.4 million) in funding as it continues its rapid expansion in the UK’s chilled meat-free category. 

The funding will support Tiba Tempeh’s marketing, sales, and product development, with new products expected to launch in 2025. The investment round was led by Maven Capital Partners through the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II, supported by the British Business Bank. Venture capital firm Perfect Redd, the investment arm of food manufacturer Samworth Brothers, also contributed follow-on funding.

“We’re incredibly proud to be the fastest-growing brand in the UK’s chilled meat-free category,” said co-founder Ross Longton in a statement. “The investment will help us accelerate our growth and support our mission to create a healthier world by inspiring people to enjoy more delicious, naturally healthy, and sustainable plant-based food.”

Read more: M&S Launches 1-Ingredient Corn Flakes

Demand for less processed meat alternatives drives growth

A packet of tempeh chunks from Tiba Tempeh
Tiba Tempeh Tiba Tempeh sells a range of easy-to-cook tempeh products

Tiba Timpeh was founded in 2019 by Alexandra and Ross Longton. It offers a range of tempeh products in UK supermarkets, including Original Block and marinated tempeh pieces. The company has expanded its retail presence in the UK, securing listings at Sainsbury’s, Morrisons, and Ocado. It has also entered the European market, launching in France and Spain with listings in Carrefour and other major retailers.

According to data from NIQ, Tiba Tempeh has seen a 736 percent increase in retail sales value over the past year, contributing £1.2 million in sales value despite a general decline in the overall meat-free category.

Read more: Vegan Pasty Wins ‘Pasty Of The Year’ At British Pie Awards

In recent years, consumers have been moving away from meat alternatives regarded as “ultra-processed,” a label often associated with vegan sausages, mince,burgers, and other meat analogues. While experts have pointed out that such products don’t necessarily deserve the negative reputation they have, consumers are increasingly seeking less processed animal-free proteins in their place. 

Tempeh, a fermented soy product, is generally regarded as a minimally processed food. It has its roots in Indonesia, but has recently surged in popularity in the UK and Europe. Tiba Tempeh is somewhat unique in offering accessible tempeh products to consumers who have previously been unfamiliar with the food. 

“Tiba Tempeh is an exciting brand, in a market where there is increasing demand for more natural and healthier meat-free alternatives, with a focus on higher nutritional and protein content, which Tiba Tempeh products provide,” said Rebecca MacDermid, investment manager at Maven, in a statement.

Read more: Demolish Foods Unveils ‘Unprecedented’ Plant-Based Whole Cuts Production Platform

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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Vegan Pasty Wins ‘Pasty Of The Year’ At British Pie Awards https://plantbasednews.org/lifestyle/food/vegan-pasty-british-pie-awards/ https://plantbasednews.org/lifestyle/food/vegan-pasty-british-pie-awards/#respond Mon, 17 Mar 2025 17:34:02 +0000 https://plantbasednews.org/?p=350777 The British Pie Awards recognize some of the best pies in the UK

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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A plant-based pasty was crowned “Pasty Of The Year” at the British Pie Awards 2025. 

The Phat Pasty Company’s Keralan Cauliflower, Chickpea & Onion Bhaji Pasty was awarded gold at the awards ceremony in Warwickshire earlier this month. The pasty consists of cauliflower, chickpeas, and onion bhajis alongside garlic, ginger, coconut milk, mango chutney, and Indian spices. According to the company, it was the first ever plant-based pasty to launch on the market six years ago. It beat 17 other pasties at the awards to be crowned winner. 

“We’ve always been at the forefront of the vegan food movement in savory pastry, and our Keralan Cauliflower, Chickpea & Onion Bhaji Pasty has been breaking ground since its launch back in 2018,” Paul Clark, Phat Controller at the Phat Pasty Company told Plant Based News. “It’s remained a best-seller, and now adds the British Pie Awards ‘Pasty’ winner to its growing list of accolades.”

Read more: Juicy Marbles Unveils ‘Market First’ Plant-Based Pork Whole Cut

Keralan Cauliflower, Chickpea & Onion Bhaji Pasty
Supplied The pasty is available to buy online

While not a vegan brand, the Phat Pasty Company, offers a range of vegan products, including its Steak-Less Pasty, Butternut Squash & Vegan Feta Pasty, alongside a Vegan Mushroom and Bourgignon Pie and Spicy Cauliflower & Spinach Balti Pie. 

The British Pie Awards

Now in its 17th year, the British Pie Awards is regarded as the most prestigious competition in the UK pie sector. More than 900 pasties and pies were entered in a variety of categories, and the winners were chosen by 168 judges from countries including the UK, USA, and Japan. 

The pasty category was sponsored by Hankyu, a popular department store in Osaka, Japan. As part of the company’s prize, Phat Pasty will host a pop-up in-store at Hankyu’s British Fair in October.

If you want to try the pasty, you can buy it online from the Phat Pasty Company website. It’s also available at a number of cafes around the UK.

Read more: M&S Plant Kitchen Launches New Products And ‘Upgraded’ Items

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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‘The White Lotus’ Star Jason Isaacs Reveals He’s Plant-Based  https://plantbasednews.org/news/celebrities/jason-isaacs-plant-based/ https://plantbasednews.org/news/celebrities/jason-isaacs-plant-based/#respond Mon, 17 Mar 2025 10:45:10 +0000 https://plantbasednews.org/?p=350716 Jason Isaacs went plant-based after doing Veganuary in 2021

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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British actor Jason Isaacs has revealed that he follows a plant-based diet. 

Isaacs is one of the stars of season three of the hit HBO series The White Lotus, which has just released its fifth episode. He plays the character Timothy Ratliff, a wealthy businessman vacationing with his wife and three children.

The series is filmed in Koh Samui, an island in the Gulf of Thailand known for its tropical landscapes, stunning beaches, and luxury resorts. While Thailand is a popular destination for vegan travelers, Isaacs told the Evening Standard that he struggled to find animal-free food in the specific area he was staying in. 

“I’m a vegan. Everyone said to me, ‘Thailand’s gonna be amazing for you!’ It turned out to be the opposite,” he said. “Being a vegan out there is a nightmare. Even the hotels don’t really cater for it. I ended up eating a variation on the same dish nearly every day: some version of tofu curry.”

Read more: ‘The Drew Barrymore Show’ Features Segment On Egg Alternatives

Plant-based celebrity Jason Isaacs in a still from HBO series The White Lotus
HBO Jason Isaacs said he struggled to find plant-based food while filming

Isaacs’ experience isn’t necessarily representative of those of other vegans in Thailand. The country as a whole is generally regarded as an excellent destination for plant-based eaters, as many of its popular dishes (like Pad Thai and various soups, salads, and curries) are naturally vegan or can easily be made animal-free. While ingredients like egg and fish sauce are often found in dishes, these can be omitted. 

Read more: Vegan ‘Anora’ Star Mikey Madison Wins ‘Best Actress’ Oscar

When did Jason Isaacs go plant-based?

Isaacs decided to go plant-based for health reasons during Veganuary 2021. He previously told GQ that he kept up the eating plan after experiencing significant health improvements. Isaacs also stopped eating oil and reduced his sugar intake soon after. 

“I’m infinitely healthier. I lost a bunch of weight – although that’s not what it was about; my stamina’s different; my sleep is different. My cholesterol plummeted,” he said. 

He added that he feels he has ‘found his lane’ with plant-based eating, saying: “I hope I stick to it because it’s clearly better. The science is incontrovertible around plant-based meals. If you’re even toying with the notion of going plant-based, do it for one meal a week or eat meat once a week, like our parents did when they were kids. You really will feel the difference.”

Read more: ‘The White Lotus’ Creator Urges Thai Government To End Monkey Exploitation

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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Baileys Launches Two New Vegan Liqueur Flavors https://plantbasednews.org/lifestyle/food/baileys-vegan-liqueur-flavors/ https://plantbasednews.org/lifestyle/food/baileys-vegan-liqueur-flavors/#respond Thu, 06 Mar 2025 16:01:27 +0000 https://plantbasednews.org/?p=350090 Baileys is embracing the growing dairy-free market

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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Baileys has just announced the launch of two vegan liqueur flavors in the US: Coffee Toffee and Cookies & Creamy.

The Irish cream liqueur brand, which is owned by UK-based company Diageo, is world-famous for its whiskey-based alcoholic drink. Baileys Original contains dairy, making it unsuitable for those on plant-based diets. But the new vegan flavors use oat milk in place of cow’s milk.

Diageo described the dairy-free drinks as an “exciting new chapter” for the brand. “Whether you go dairy-free or just enjoy how it tastes, oat milk elevates those treating moments we all love,” Milly Shome, director of Baileys and liqueurs, Diageo North America, said in a statement. “We saw it as the perfect match for the lively, social spirit of Baileys, creating a whole new way to enjoy your coffee.”

Read more: How To Make Vegan ‘Baileys’ At Home

Baileys’ dairy-free history

A selection of Baileys drinks on a supermarket shelf
Adobe Stock Baileys can be found on supermarket shelves all over the world – but the original version is unsuitable for vegans

This isn’t the first time Baileys has dipped its toe into the ever-growing dairy-free market. It previously introduced an almond milk-based product called Baileys Almande. This initially launched in the United States in 2016, and it became available in the United Kingdom in 2018, with major supermarkets like Asda, Waitrose, and Ocado stocking the product. The liqueur was also available in various other countries, including in Europe.

Despite its popularity, Baileys Almande was discontinued in autumn 2021. Since then, Baileys fans have been hoping for news of a new dairy-free version. 

It’s not known if or when the new oat milk-based Baileys will be launched in other countries. In response to an information request from Plant Based News, a Diegeo spokesperson said that the brand hopes to introduce the product in other markets, but there are no confirmed plans yet.

Baileys Coffee Toffee and Cookies & Creamy are 17 percent ABV and are available to buy now across the USA. They cost $25 for a 750ml bottle, $12 for 100ml three-packs, and $3 for a 50ml.

Read more: Vegan Milkshake-Inspired Liqueurs Launch At B&M

This article was written by Polly Foreman on the PBN Website.

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