Nestlé Professional has launched its new meat alternatives product range Harvest Gourmet to the restaurant trade.
Currently available at Buns Out restaurants in Johannesburg, the Harvest Gourmet range comprises a burger, a schnitzel and chargrilled pieces. The products are suitable for vegetarians and flexitarians, but not vegans as they may contain egg.
While South Africa is a meat-loving nation, Nestlé says that a significant proportion of people would like to eat less meat than they currently consume, and almost half of those who identify as meat-eaters admit that they have bought plant-based meat alternative products over the past three months.
 Harvest Gourmet Schnitzel. Source: Supplied
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This shift in mindset, Nestlé adds, mirrors a growing global movement towards meat-free alternatives as consumers become more conscious of the health and environmental impacts of their food choices.
To meet this rise in demand for meat alternatives, the food company’s network of over 300 experts – including food technologists, scientists, chefs and foodservice professionals – have worked together to perfect the taste, texture and appearance of products to provide menu options that do not compromise on flavour or experience.
“Nestlé’s new range of meat-free alternatives Harvest Gourmet provides an opportunity for South Africans to have access to tastier and healthier choices. The plant-based meal solutions product line comprises vegan burgers patties, schnitzels and chargrilled pieces which can be added to a variety of dishes including wraps, sandwiches, pasta dishes and salads,” says Shamir Sookdeo, business executive officer, Nestlé Professional, East and Southern Africa region.
