Tofoo releases the first Seitan products on supermarket shelves

Vegan protein brand Tofoo has announced the launch of its first-ever seitan products.

The new products, created in collaboration with London plant-based restaurant Temple of Seitan, will hit supermarket shelves in May.

Read more: Heinz unveils ‘Barbie’ sauce: a pink vegan BBQ mayo

There will be two flavors available for purchase. Original Seitan is a chicken flavored block currently served at Temple of Seitan branches. Pepperoni Seitan is described as a “smoky and spicy” pepperoni alternative.

Both products cost £2.50 and will be available from selected Waitrose stores next month. The Original Seitan will also be sold at Tesco.

What is seitan?

Seitan is a protein made from wheat gluten. It has been a staple in many Asian countries for centuries, but has grown in popularity around the world in recent years as a plant-based meat alternative. It has a chewy texture and a great ability to absorb flavors. Temple of Seitan, which has operations in the UK, uses it to make its famous vegan chicken products.

Read more: Company uses ‘Shear Cell’ technology to create plant-based whole pieces

According to Tofoo, the new launch of seitan aims to capitalize on the growing demand for natural plant-based proteins.

“Consumers are looking for products that offer more versatility in the meals they can prepare,” Dave Knibbs, MD of The Tofoo Co, said in a statement. “(The) Seitan lines offer shoppers the scratch-based cooking and health benefits they crave, while also offering a meatier texture than tofu and tempeh, which will appeal to flexitarians and omnivores.”

Although seitan is often used in plant-based restaurants, it is harder to find in British supermarkets. These products will be among the first of their kind to be offered at retail.

“Last year alone, we served more than 250,000 restaurant customers,” said Patrick O’Shea, co-founder of Temple of Seitan. “There is strong demand for seitan as a plant-based protein that delivers a meaty texture and flavor.”

Read more: Vegan brand launches ‘first of its kind’ fermented steak