Nando's launched a meat and dairy free take on its chicken burgers and sandwiches today - although strictly speaking, it can't call its 'Great Imitator' vegan.
The peri-peri infused pea protein Great Imitator launches in Nando's restaurants around the UK on Tuesday October 13.
The plant-based chicken alternative - served in four strips - is available in burger, pittas and wraps and will go "head to head with our classic chicken burger", Nando's says.
Nando's adds: "And we’ve not called it The Great Imitator for nothing. This plant-based alternative tastes so much like our famous PERi-PERi chicken, even the biggest Nando’s fan will find it hard to tell the difference."
As with chicken, customers will be able to order the Great Imitator with the spice level of the choice, while switching mayo or yoghurt for vegan Perinaise makes it a completely plant-based meal.
But, strictly speaking, Nando's can not call the Great Imitator 'vegan', as there is a risk of cross-contamination with real chicken cooked on its grills.
PETA's director of vegan corporate projects, Dawn Carr, said: "PETA is delighted to have played a part in Nando's journey to putting this delicious plant-based chicken on the table.
"Nando's can't guarantee zero risk of cross-contamination, so it's not calling it vegan, but as all the ingredients in the burger and pitta versions are completely animal-free – right down to the mayo – we say these are an excellent choice for vegans, vegetarians, meat-reducers, and chickens."
