Plant-Based Tuna Melts

The Native Foods Tuna Melt is a Vegan-friendly Take on a Classic

With the launch of the Native Foods Tuna Melt, it's easier than ever for vegans to enjoy this classic dish.

Native Foods – the vegan fast casual brand that's been taking the industry by storm – recently announced its Chef’s Special of 2022: the Tuna Melt. The Native Foods Tuna Melt is an ingenious culinary creation that uses plant-based ingredients like chopped chickpeas and nori to create a vegan-friendly version of a classic melty tuna and cheese sandwich. The chickpea ‘tuna’ salad is also paired with plant-based cheddar cheese, tomato, lettuce, and vegan mayo, and served on toasted sourdough bread. The whole thing is also served with your choice of side, which can include something like seasoned fries or a premium side like the chain's plant-based mac and cheese.

Image Credit: Native Foods

Plant-based Fast Food
Opportunity for fast-casual chains to incorporate more vegan-friendly and plant-based options on their menus.
Innovative Culinary Creations
Opportunity for chefs and food scientists to explore and create new plant-based alternatives for classic dishes.
Health-conscious Eating Habits
Opportunity for health-focused brands to include vegan and plant-based options on their menu, catering to customers with dietary restrictions or preferences.

Where This Applies

Fast Casual Dining
Plant-based options are an opportunity for traditional fast-casual chains to stand out and attract a wider customer base.
Food and Beverage Manufacturing
Manufacturers can explore creating new plant-based meat alternatives to keep up with the growing demand for alternative protein sources.
Health and Wellness
Opportunity for health and wellness brands to incorporate plant-based ingredients in their products, catering to customers seeking healthier snack options.
SCORE
3.5 out of 10
GENDER
50% Men50% Women
MARKETTop markets: North America
GENERATION
  • Gen Z
  • Gen Alpha
  • Millennial (primary audience)
  • Gen X (primary audience)
POPULARITY
Popularity 26%
Activity 65%
Freshness 13%

Solutions for innovators working at the edge of change. We help transform emerging ideas into practical, durable solutions by combining strategic thinking, creative exploration, and hands-on execution.

Trends © 2026 Trend Hunter Inc. All Rights Reserved.
LinkedIn Instagram X