Supermarket Chain Produces New Vegan Deli Meats

Israeli food producer Vgarden will manufacture its vegan deli meats at a new factory opened by supermarket chain Tiv Taam. 

The collaboration will help it meet demand for its products overseas. They will be manufactured in Tiv Taam’s new facility in Haifa, northern Israel, which is dedicated to the production of kosher and vegan foods. 

Vgarden’s new range includes pepperoni, ham, chicken, turkey, and other cold-cut alternatives. It is based on pea protein and coconut oil and has up to 26.5 percent protein by weight, which is equal to or more than their conventional animal protein counterparts.  

The company already develops and sells a wide range of plant-based products, including soft and hard cheeses, spreads, filled pastries, and nuggets. It initially sold its products in Israel under the MashuMashu brand.

“Our deli slices are suitable as a sandwich filling or pizza topping and were created as part of Vgarden’s strategy to provide the full spectrum of sustainable dairy, meat, and seafood alternatives that are compelling to the senses while still high in nutritional value,” said Ilan Adut, CEO of Vgarden.

“This strategic cooperation with the Tiv Taam will enable our company to significantly increase production to meet anticipated demands in the US and internationally, as well as accelerate the pace of development of Vgarden products.”

The global plant-based meat market is currently worth more than $5 billion and is projected to surpass $27 billion by 2030. The massive growth is driven by increasing consumer concern for sustainability, and animal welfare along with consumers’ openness to novel plant-based foods.