In the fall of 2017, UK supermarket chain Waitrose announced that it would be increasing its store space for vegan and vegetarian products by 35%—and in the new year, it is already offering a range of new plant-based foods, including the 'Mushroom and Miso Stir Fry Bites.'
These flavorful food bites are packed with mushrooms, soya and black turtle beans, offering a unique alternative to meatballs. To prepare the product from a chilled state, consumers are instructed to warm the bites in a wok or frying pan for a few minutes before serving.
Although the product is boldly labeled "vegetarian," on the front of the packaging, Waitrose has also noted that the Mushroom and Miso Stir Fry Bites are also suited to vegan consumers.
Vegetarian Stir-Fry Bites
Waitrose's Mushroom and Miso Stir Fry Bites are New and Plant-Based
Trend Themes
1. Increasing Demand for Plant-based Foods - The growing desire for plant-based food options presents opportunities to develop new and innovative vegetarian and vegan products.
2. Expansion of Vegetarian and Vegan Product Lines - Supermarkets and food retailers can capitalize on the rising popularity of vegetarian and vegan diets by expanding their product offerings in this category.
3. Innovation in Meat Alternatives - Developing tasty and nutritious meat substitute products, such as mushroom and miso stir fry bites, can disrupt the traditional meat market and cater to changing consumer preferences.
Industry Implications
1. Supermarket and Grocery Stores - Supermarkets have the opportunity to meet the increasing demand for plant-based foods by dedicating more store space to vegetarian and vegan products.
2. Food Manufacturing - Food manufacturers can invest in research and development to create innovative vegetarian and vegan food products that cater to a wide range of consumer preferences.
3. Meat and Poultry Industry - The meat and poultry industry can explore opportunities to develop and market meat alternatives that appeal to both vegetarians and flexitarians.