Burger King has launched vegan nuggets across the UK in a bid to make its menu 50% meat-free by 2030. According to the fast-food chain, the nuggets are made from soy and plant proteins and had been certified by the Vegan Society. UK chief executive Alasdair Murdoch described the introduction of vegan nuggets as a “significant milestone for the company.” “The launch is another positive step in reducing our carbon footprint and driving innovation in our menus in response to a growing demand for meatless alternatives and products with no animal protein in the UK,” he said. In 2020, Burger King added a plant-based Rebel Whopper to its menu, but it was later deemed unsuitable for vegans because it was cooked on the same grill as meat. A vegan diet is made up of only plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, soy, legumes, and nuts.

Burger King said its 50% meat-free goal would help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 41%. Moreover, the company said its vegan nuggets taste the same as its chicken-based counterparts. Based on a survey conducted by London-based research firm Mintel, more than 1,000 adults in England are willing to cut down on meat consumption for health reasons. Fast-food giant Mcdonald’s has also recently launched its vegan McPlant burger in the UK.