Schouten Europe responds to market trends with the introduction of Chickenless Pops
The Dutch family company Schouten Europe is introducing “Southern Fried Chickenless Pops” this month. With this fully plant-based product, Schouten is tapping into the growing demand for plant-based snacks. Reducing meat consumption is globally recognized as one of the key pillars to combat climate change.
Variety of flavors possible
According to Daphne Sanders, product developer at Schouten, the choice of Southern fried flavor was made due to its popularity. “But various other flavor variations can be applied to these pops, making it an attractive concept for our business partners.”
Crispy
“The main protein sources for these pops are soy and wheat proteins, flavored with herbs, spices, and natural aromas,” says Sanders. “To present the pops as crispy as possible, they are best prepared in an air fryer or deep fryer. Baking in the oven is also possible.” The latest Schouten product is fully plant-based, rich in proteins, and is a source of fiber.
Growth in the plant-based snack segment
Kees van den Heuvel, Trade Marketer at Schouten, notes that meat substitutes are no longer consumed only during main meals. “In recent years, we have seen that consumers are increasingly choosing protein-rich snacks. The growing assortment of plant-based options in foodservice establishments plays a stimulating role in this.” According to market research firm Markteffect, 27% of frequent meat substitute users in the Netherlands (54% of the population) indicate that they regularly eat vegetarian or plant-based snacks, and this percentage is increasing annually.
Largest segment
According to market research firm Markets and Markets, the segment of chicken substitutes is by far the largest segment within the global market for meat substitutes. The research firm expects that the plant-based replacement of chicken will represent a turnover of over 13 billion USD by 2025.
Versatile applications
Schouten is currently presenting its Chickenless Pops to its customers worldwide in the retail, out-of-home, and food industry channels. The product can be enjoyed as a snack or as part of a hot meal, in a salad, or in a wrap.
The first Dutch player
Schouten started in 1990 as the first Dutch player in the development of meat substitutes based on plant proteins. The company markets one of the most extensive and diverse assortments in the world and supplies its products, mainly under private labels, to more than 50 countries. The company also develops many products based on customer demand.
