Beyond Meat Launches Vegan Pork Products In China

Plant-based meat icon, Beyond Meat, has launched a minced pork alternative in China this month.

Beyond Pork will be initially available in a handful of restaurants in Shanghai, according to Reuters.

Pork popularity

China is the world’s largest consumer of pork per capita, causing the brand to set its sights on tapping into the market.

Beyond Meat already sells its products in Asian countries such as Taiwan, Singapore and Hong Kong.

The move into China comes as the country is reported to be focussing on improving food security following the outbreak of COVID-19.

A ‘milestone’

In a statement, Beyond Meat’s general manager for China, Candy Chan, said the launch marked a ‘milestone’.

Candy added: “We’re excited to launch Beyond Pork in China. We are not only launching an entirely new product innovation, but our first plant-based meat product created specifically for the Chinese market.”

Beyond Meat’s global growth

Starbucks sites across the country launched the brand’s vegan-meat products earlier this year, adding to the brand’s popularity.

Moreover, partnerships with fast-food giants KFC, McDonald’s and Pizza Hut have shown high demand for Beyond Meat from Chinese consumers.

Beyond Meat’s shares and sales have skyrocketed this year, causing the company to open its first manufacturing facility outside of the U.S.