In response to the Global climate crisis and the rise of conscious consumers, fast food chains across the globe have been introducing meat alternatives as limited-edition or permanent menu items -- KFC China is the latest to do so, as it's testing plant-based chicken in select locations.
Hungry consumers are able to enjoy the special menu item for a limited-time for a price of approximately 30 cents USD. The nuggets are made from "a combination of mix of protein such as soy, wheat, and special pea, which help create a taste that emulates real chicken." In addition, the nuggets are fried in KFC's signature style. The test will run in-store from April 28 through April 30, 2020.
Plant-Based Chicken Tests
KFC China is Testing Plant-Based Chicken
Trend Themes
1. Meat Alternatives - The rise of conscious consumers and the global climate crisis is driving the introduction of meat alternatives by fast food chains, presenting opportunities for innovative plant-based products.
2. Limited-edition Menu Items - Fast food chains introducing limited-edition menu items featuring meat alternatives create excitement and attract customers looking for new food experiences.
3. Testing Plant-based Chicken - The testing of plant-based chicken by KFC China demonstrates the growing demand for alternative protein sources and the potential for disruptive innovation in the fast food industry.
Industry Implications
1. Fast Food - The fast food industry is embracing meat alternatives and limited-edition menu items as a response to consumer demand for more sustainable and ethical food choices.
2. Food Technology - Food technology companies have the opportunity to develop innovative plant-based protein products that emulate the taste and texture of real chicken, catering to the growing market of conscious consumers.
3. Sustainability - The rise of plant-based chicken testing presents opportunities for the sustainability industry to support the development and distribution of environmentally-friendly alternatives to traditional meat products.