Oscar Mayer, a well-known hot dog brand, has revealed major changes to its famous hot dogs.
The company behind Oscar Mayer, Kraft-Heinz, is introducing new products called "NotHotDogs" and "NotSausages." They plan to release these items later this year. However, some people are already doubting whether they will like them.
Oscar Mayer Launches Vegan Hot Dogs
Oscar Mayer, famous for its hot dog sausages, has introduced a plant-based version in 140 years.
These vegan alternatives are designed to mimic the smoky flavor, meat-like color, and satisfying texture of their classic hot dogs.
Entering the plant-based meat scene, Oscar Mayer has partnered with TheNotCompany, a startup backed by Jeff Bezos. According to a recent announcement, the new "NotSausages" will be available in Bratwurst and Italian varieties.
Kraft Heinz predicts the market for plant-based meats will soar from $8.3 billion in 2023 to $19 billion by 2030. The company believes that plant-based hot dogs and sausages have yet to fully catch on because many existing products don't meet consumer expectations for taste and texture.
Kraft Heinz is set to change that with their Oscar Mayer NotHotDogs and NotSausages, promising a "smoky, savory taste, meaty color, and thick, juicy bite."
Lucho Lopez-May, CEO of Kraft Heinz Not Company, stated that the company's mission is to offer tasty, plant-based foods that appeal to everyone, from strict vegans to those just exploring plant-based eating.
Lopez-May has observed a growing appetite for plant-based meat alternatives from familiar and reliable brands.
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The company aims to fulfill these desires by introducing its first plant-based meat product.
"We're seizing the chance to meet consumer demand for plant-based meats," said Lopez-May.
Oscar Mayer will unveil its new vegan hot dogs at Expo West in Anaheim, California, from March 12 to 16. The company has also announced that these products will start appearing in major retailers later this year.
A recent poll by the Vegetarian Resource Group shows that 6% of adults in the U.S. now identify as vegan or vegetarian, up from 3.4% in 2015. This increase highlights a significant shift towards meat-free diets among Americans.
Mixed Reactions to Oscar Mayer's Vegan Hot Dogs
Oscar Mayer's announcement of its upcoming vegan hot dogs has sparked a range of reactions on social media, from skepticism to outright rejection.
One user on X, previously known as Twitter, firmly stated, "Hard pass." Another simply expressed, "No thanks." There were also humorous takes, with one person suggesting that these vegan hot dogs might be the last item left on shelves before a hurricane.
Despite these mixed reactions, Oscar Mayer is moving forward with plans to introduce these new sausages to grocery stores later this year, joining a growing trend of companies offering plant-based alternatives.
Kraft Heinz is no stranger to the plant-based market, having launched two vegan versions of its iconic mac-and-cheese last year. These products were developed in collaboration with TheNotCompany, utilizing ingredients like coconut oil, fava bean protein, and dried pineapple to mimic the classic cheesy taste.
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