By Sacha Cohen
Plant Based World Expo this September 08-09 at Javits Center in New York, NY
Plant based foods have come a long way over the past few years. When Plant Based World Expo launched in 2019, Beyond Burger had just gone public and plant-based foods were still a novel concept to many consumers. It was also still challenging to find premium plant-based meat, seafood and dairy options at grocery stores and menus across the country.
Oh, how things have changed.
In just three years, the plant-based industry has exploded and is now valued at around $7 billion in the U.S., according to data from the Plant Based Foods Association, The Good Food Institute, and SPINS. A wide and diverse selection of plant-based foods can be found in countless restaurants, major retailers, and grocery stores across the U.S. While not yet completely mainstream, you can find plant-based dairy and meat alternatives next to their animal protein counterparts in the refrigerated section of many grocery stores, whole sections of stores dedicated to plant-based foods, and restaurants of all types with plenty of range of plant-based options.
There is a dizzying selection of products already on store shelves, and many more waiting in the wings to entice and delight discerning customers. Plant Based World Expo on September 8&9 at the Javits Center in New York, is one of the best places to taste and experience hundreds of these new and innovative plant-based products. Here’s a sneak peek at just a few of the intriguing brands and products that we’re particularly excited about sampling at this year’s show.
Popadelics are shiitake mushrooms reimagined for the modern superfood snacker that burst with flavor and pack an addictive crunch. Available in three mouth-watering flavors — Trippin’ Truffle Parm, Twisted Thai Chili, and Rad Rosemary + Salt – these crunchy snacks are vegan, non-GMO, and a good source of protein and fiber.
Sundial Foods has created clean-label whole cuts of plant-based meat. Their first product is a high protein chicken wing made using only eight ingredients. The wings are complete with a deliciously crispy skin and even a plant-based “bone” for the full experience.
Dirt Kitchen Snacks offer minimally processed air dried veggie and nut mixes and pressed bars. The veggie and nut mixes are inspired by favorite veggie side dishes like Spicy Thai Noodle Salad and Green Bean Almondine, and are made with rescued veggies, which helps reduce food waste.
Aberyne is a 100% plant-based alternative to foie gras that’s made in France. With a look, taste, and texture just like traditional foie gras, this animal-free pate is made with cashew nuts, miso, sesame puree, and coconut oil.
Mind Blown Plant Based Seafood Company is an all-female, family-owned company on a mission to re-create the ‘complete seafood-lovers’ experience’ without the sacrifice using only a handful of healthy plant-based ingredients while offering the ocean some well-deserved relief. Products include plant-based shrimp, scallops and crab cakes.
In 2019, Unlimeat branched out to try to help reduce food waste by putting excess grain stocks to use, which led to the birth of their plant-based meat: UNLIMEAT. After entering the plant-based food business, they poured their hearts into developing a proprietary “protein compression” extrusion technology, creating a truly meat-like texture.
Fable Foods Meaty Pulled Mushrooms and Burger Patty will be new to the US market and are launching at PBW. Fable is made from Shiitake mushrooms whose dense, fleshy fibers and umami flavors are naturally meat-like.
Myrtle Greens Vegan Boneless Chicken Wings will debut at PBW. The company has ha taken a favorite appetizer and given it a delectable vegan twist. The vegan boneless Chicken Wings have all the texture and flavor of traditional Wings and can be enjoyed baked or fried, dipped in your favorite sauce or dry rub.
Shicken makes plant based Tikka Kebab Skewers that are hand-made to offer an authentic restaurant quality taste, texture and flavor profile that offers the closest match to real chicken. Packed in a zero plastic 100% biodegradable packaging.
Broma creates organic dark chocolate almond and lentil nut butters which provide a source of complete protein. Each spoonful of Broma contains all 9 essential amino acids, is gluten free, vegan and refined sugar free.
Happy Planet is a mother/daughter duo who were inspired to share the importance of healthy food in an accessible way. OhSo Tasty is a delicious superfood new’dle soup and MISOgood is a lovingly crafted organic miso packed with plant-based, gluten-free, non-GMO, clean-label ingredients. With only one minute needed to prepare, Happy Planet promotes wellness without sacrificing time.
Lupii offers a new perspective on protein by tapping into the power of lupini beans, which are good for soil health, require less water than other plant crops, and are a more efficient source of protein than animal products. Lupini powered bars are a tasty, healthy way to eat better on the go and flavors include Tahini Lemon Cranberry, Peanut Butter Cacao and Almond Butter Cinnamon Raisin.
Plant Based World Expo is North America’s only 100% plant-based event designed exclusively for foodservice and retail professionals, distributors, investors, and manufacturers. PBW combines a world-class conference with an exhibition showcasing thousands of innovative plant-based food products and brands from around the world, plus high-level networking and tasting opportunities. PBW is the official tradeshow of the Plant Based Foods Association. More than 250 exhibitors and more than 4,500 people are expected to attend this year. Register to attend
