The range will include Meat-Free Chicken Style Nuggets, Southern Fried Goujons and Kievs, Chicken Style Shawarma, Chicken Style Pieces, Beef Style Strips, Meat-Free Bacon Style Rashers and a newly developed mince substitute.
Commenting on the launch, new product development manager Laura Wills said: “This further investment in the continued growth of the meat-free protein category within Asda and their support in the launch of our new facility demonstrates the desire of consumers to reduce their meat intake.”
New factory
The launch followed the opening of a new £25m factory designed to boost plant-based production. Based next to its headquarters in Downpatrick, Northern Ireland (NI), the plant is the fourth facility opened by the manufacturer in five years, bringing total investment in factories and equipment to £80 during that period.
Finnebrogue’s new plant-based range joins more than 50 products launched into Asda stores by the manufacturer since its partnership started with the retailer in 2014, including a ‘first to market’ vegan turkey joint.
Asda buying manager for NI Local Emma Swan added: “We are continually on the lookout for ways we can add value to our plant-based range and our relationship with Finnebrogue Artisan allows us to do just that.
Local suppliers
“We’re very proud to introduce eight new lines to shelves across the UK from a local supplier and we know shoppers are going to love the range.”
Last year saw Finnebrogue launch its Naked ‘Without the Oink’ rashers, which are high in protein and a source of fibre, B12, zinc and iron, in 600 Tesco stores.
It joined the Naked plant-based range launched last summer, which included Naked ‘Without the Moo’ mince, meatballs and burgers and Naked ‘Without the Oink’ sausages. Finnebrogue said it launched the plant-based food range to target flexitarians.
Meanwhile, Winterbotham Darby was crowned Plant-based Manufacturing Company of the Year at this year’s Food Manufacture Excellence Awards. Readers can also directly access a short version of the announcement of the winners here.
