The McDonald’s McPlant burger has been formally announced by the brand as its latest menu item that targets the increasing number of consumers seeking out a meat alternative. The burger is presently being tested out in a number of select markets around the world and features a Beyond Meat patty thanks to a three-year strategic agreement that was struck between the brands. The partnership will also see the brands working to develop additional plant-based menu items as an alternative to existing chicken, egg and pork options.
The McDonald’s McPlant burger will be available for consumers in the US to try out at select locations in 2021 with additional launches expected in the near future if it's well-received by curious plant-based consumers.
Plant-Based Burger Launches
The McDonald’s McPlant Burger will Have a Beyond Meat Patty
Trend Themes
1. Plant-based Fast Food - The launch of the McDonald's McPlant burger signals an opportunity for other fast food chains to introduce meat alternatives on their menu, capitalizing on the growing trend of plant-based diets.
2. Beyond Meat Partnerships - The strategic agreement between Beyond Meat and McDonald's opens up new partnership opportunities for other plant-based food companies to collaborate with major chains and expand their market reach.
3. Alternative Protein Development - The development of plant-based chicken, egg, and pork options alongside the McDonald's McPlant burger indicates a trend towards expanding alternative protein options beyond the traditional beef substitute market.
Industry Implications
1. Fast Food Industry - The introduction of the McDonald's McPlant burger highlights a disruptive innovation opportunity for the fast food industry to revolutionize consumer eating habits and vie for new customers.
2. Plant-based Food Industry - The partnership between Beyond Meat and McDonald's offers an opportunity for other plant-based food industry players to collaborate with major food chains and increase their brand visibility and profitability.
3. Alternative Protein Industry - The expansion of alternative protein options beyond the beef substitute market represents a significant disruptive innovation opportunity for the alternative protein industry to broaden its offerings and capture new market segments.