Banja, a New York brand that makes chickpea-based foods, has launched a new product — Plant-Based Deluxe Mac — at Whole Foods stores across the United States.
This vegan version of a classic favorite is the latest addition to Banger’s plant-based portfolio, which includes three mac and cheese products, two pizzas and a rice and chickpea pasta range.
The new product is made with plant-based cheddar and chickpea pasta, providing three times more protein and fiber and 30% less net carbs than leading vegan mac and cheese products. Each serving contains 9 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber.
Chickpea based comfort food
Banja, founded in 2014, is the first commercial producer of chickpea-based comfort foods in the United States. The company claims to offer the nation’s best-selling gluten-free pizza line, now available in 11,000 stores nationwide, and saw 40% growth in the good-for-you pizza category. It has become a favorite of celebrities such as Lizzo, Drew Barrymore and Kristen Bell.
In August 2022, Banza introduced Masterpiece’Juice – a pizza kit that transforms its popular pizza into creative art, with vegan and vegetarian versions available. The brand previously partnered with Beyond Meat and Follow Your Heart to offer plant-based pizzas.
“In 2022, Banza BFY brought in more shoppers than any other brand in the mac and cheese category. More nutritious and equally delicious versions of people’s favorite foods, especially those that fit all types of diets and lifestyles,” says Banja.
Vegan Deluxe Mac & Cheese will be available from April 2023 on the company’s website and Amazon.