Burger King vegan nuggets
(Picture: PA)Burger King has become the first fast food chain in the UK to launch vegan nuggets.
The plant-based nuggets will be available nationwide from Wednesday as the outlet advances on its aim to make half its menu meat-free by 2030.
The product, which was developed by The Vegetarian Butcher and certified by the Vegan Society, is made from soy and plant proteins.
The chain hailed the move as “another positive step in reducing our carbon footprint” and for “driving innovation” in the UK fast food scene.
Burger King hit the headlines after releasing a meat-free version of the Whopper in 2019.
But the firm faced a backlash as it was later revealed that the plant-based burger was not suitable for vegetarians because it was cooked on the same grill as the restaurant’s beef patties.
Vegan customer Philip Williams filed a class-action lawsuit against Burger King claiming that the Impossible Whopper is “coated in meat by-products”.
Demand for vegan products has soared in recent years and many chains have responded by introducing plant-based menu items.
Rival firm McDonald’s launched Veggie Dippers in early 2020 - its first-ever fully vegan meal.
Burger King UK chief executive Alasdair Murdoch said: “We’re pleased to announce the launch of BKUK’s new vegan nuggets across our menus nationwide – a significant milestone for the company and an important next step in achieving our target of a 50% meat-free menu by 2030.
“Adapting to customer preferences is a key focus at Burger King – we are committed to helping our guests make good decisions about what they eat and drink and providing them with informed choices – whether through clear nutrition and allergen labelling, or by offering vegan and vegetarian options.
“The launch is another positive step in reducing our carbon footprint and driving innovation in our menus in response to growing demand for meatless alternatives and products with no animal protein in the UK.”
