Co-op has extended its range of healthy food options with 18 new lines going into stores, including its first 100 per cent vegan steak and a take on the classic pork pie.
The convenience retailer is doubling its plant-based offer with vegan alternatives to traditional favourites alongside meals that celebrate the deliciousness of vegetables such as a spiced squash and cauliflower pie.
Research from Co-op, reveals that the vegan market has more than doubled in the last decade, worth £1.1 billion - up from £565 million in 2011.
The rise in demand is set to continue as more than half of UK customers feel inspired to become vegan, with nearly a quarter saying their attitudes towards the environment and health have become more important in the last 12 months.
Breige Donaghy, Director of Delicious Food, said: “As a convenience retailer with stores in every postal area, it’s important that we cater for all our shoppers.
"Growing our plant-based offering will continue to be a priority for 2021 and our expert team of developers have already created some amazing new products to kick start the new year.”
Co-op also has a strong vegan wine offering, with almost 220 lines its range.
The retailer has also long-campaigned against animal testing and was the first major supermarket to move its entire own-brand toiletry and household product ranges to the Cruelty Free International “Leaping Bunny” standards.
