JTM Food Group, a US foodservice manufacturer, announced the launch of PlantBorn™, a new collection of plant-based protein options for schools, colleges and other foodservice operators.
“So far, Plantbourne’s reviews have been very positive”
Intended to offer a simple and nutritious plant-based menu option, PlantBorn’s line includes taco fillings and pasta sauces. Made with textured yellow pea protein, the items provide a clean-label, allergen-friendly meat alternative that can be easily incorporated into a variety of dishes, from tacos and nachos to pizza and pasta bowls.
Both items are prepared completely in heat and serve pouches that can be boiled or steamed.
“More than 60 percent of American households now buy plant-based food protein products, and there is a big push across the country for schools to add more plant-based options to their menus,” comments Amy McAdams, senior director of marketing for JTM’s food group. “We took two of the most popular beef products we produce (beef taco filling and beef spaghetti sauce) and worked with our R&D team to find the right alternative protein to complement those recipes and that would work well in our kettle-cooking operation. “
student exam
To demonstrate the product’s popularity with students, JTM reports that it recently sampled Plantbourne Taco fillings with 200 students at South Dearborn Middle School. Fillings were offered as part of the build-your-own burrito bowl, along with fresh toppings like salsa and lettuce.
The students were unaware that the taco filling was actually plant-based until they finished lunch and completed a survey. Of the 200 students, 90 percent who ate the taco filling confirmed, “Yes they liked the taste,” and 96 percent said they would eat it again.
“The goal was to create a clean-label, great-tasting, turnkey product line that our customers could easily implement into their operations,” says McAdams. “So far, the reviews for PlantBorn have been very positive, and we’re excited to bring these innovative, new menu options to foodservice operators across the country.”