Research conducted by Asda found over a third of people (35%) would like to reduce their meat intake, with 3 in 10 (30%) adding they were more open to vegan food in 2019, compared to 2018.
To cater to the growing demand, Asda has expanded its offering, launching 29 new vegan-accredited products, just in time for Christmas celebrations.
As a turkey or nut roast alternative, Asda has launched two new main course options for those following a plant-based diet – the Extra Special Vegan Wellington with a Rich Red Wine Gravy, serves three people. Light puff pastry encases seasoned soya, mushrooms and caramelised onions.
The second main option is the Vegan Chickpea and Cranberry Wellington. A delicious puff pastry is filled with chickpeas, cranberries, apricots and blended with festive spices, topped with a sweet cranberry sauce to complement the dish - best served with all the trimmings for everyone to enjoy.
After the main, guests can tuck into Asda’s new Extra Special Vegan Chocolate and Caramel Swirl Dessert, shaped in a traditional Bundt style and with golden finish.
The swirls contain a luxurious vegan caramel sauce with a rich dairy-free chocolate mousse, encased in a dark and decadent Belgian chocolate shell. The swirls are available in a pack of two, priced at £3 – perfect for that after dinner delectable dessert.
For lunch on-the-go, Asda is launching the Festive Cauliflower and Chutney Sandwich. The sandwich contains cauliflower with vegan stock flavouring, smoky carrot strips and spinach; slathered with a vegan chestnut, parsnip and sage hummus. It’s then topped with a chunky cranberry chutney in a sage and onion flavoured bread, perfect for lunch at the office.
Jo Johnson, Senior Manager Asda Own Brand Innovation, commented, “With plant-based diets ever rising, and the popularity of initiatives such as meat-free Mondays, we’re always striving to offer our customers a wide range of vegan options for those with specific dietary requirements, or for anyone looking to cut down their meat intake.
“We’ve found that a third of Brits (33%) thought vegan foods were expensive, so it’s essential for us to make our products great value, at a price point which is affordable for all. Our wide range of vegan food, drinks and snacks is ever-growing, with the new festive collection sure to be a hit with customers and their party guests”.