KFC to start selling plant-based fried ‘chicken’

KFC has introduced new menu items that have left some people excited and others loathing it. Even the fast-food giant called it “confusing”.

Fast-food chains have changed dramatically over the past few years — what was once the go-to place for a quick feed has now become a hub for health-conscious people.

Just look at McDonald’s, who recently reintroduced its veggie burger after a huge demand.

Now KFC has followed suit with its self-described “confusing but delicious” menu items — which are completely meat-free.

Not only is this “chicken” meatless, it is also vegan — ticking a wide variety of different dietary requirements — and the brand say it will taste identical to the famed “secret” recipe fried chicken.

Currently the Colonel Sanders-approved meatless option is only available in the US city of Atlanta where it’s being trialled — however it could soon be heading Down Under.

KFC to sell plant-based fried ‘chicken’. Picture: Supplied

When approached by news.com.au, a KFC Australia spokesperson refused to confirm or deny whether the vegan offering would be launched Down Under.

“We’re excited to see product innovations taking place in KFC restaurants across the pond to cater for all tastes and diets. At this stage we haven’t got plans for meat-free chicken products in Australia but never say never,” the spokesperson said.

RELATED: The Colonel’s original chicken recipe found in scrapbook

RELATED: Secret to cooking KFC chicken at home has been revealed

Customer feedback from the Atlanta test will be considered as KFC evaluates a broader test and potential national rollout and then global markets will be considered.

The announcement of plant-based chicken makes the KFC and Beyond Meat partnership a unique one and the first of its kind in the US fast-food space.

It’s Kentucky Fried Chicken but it’s made with @BeyondMeat. It’s confusing, but it’s also delicious. Feast on these Kentucky Fried miracles tomorrow while they last at KFC in Atlanta, Georgia. pic.twitter.com/lC5oYM1cmk

— KFC (@kfc) August 26, 2019

Many have responded positively to the vegan option in the States, taking to Twitter to thank KFC for joining in on plant-based meats.

“This will save millions of chickens from a terrible and cruel life just to be slaughtered.,” one Twitter user said.

“Thanks! And now let’s talk about all that #dairy in them mashed potatoes next,” added another.

KFC I actually have a reason to go into your restaurant now! Thank you for doing this. I will be there tomorrow. ATL represent! pic.twitter.com/eqWnA6TgWK

— Ashley Renne (@HeyAshleyRenne) August 26, 2019

This is incredible — I really hope to see this nationwide! 🙌🏼

— John Oberg (@JohnOberg) August 26, 2019

“Thank you soooooo much for doing this @kfc and @BeyondMeat!!!! I have not eaten at kfc in *years* but this would definitely change that. Please make this nationwide!!!” said a third.

However, not all were happy about the new introduction.

“It better be chicken!!!! It’s so bogus that Fast Food restaurants are starting to serve meatless meat!!! Like Burger Kings beefless burger!!!! Can’t call that a Whopper!” said a Twitter user.

When sharing news of the trial in Atlanta, KFC insisted the vegan offering tastes just like the real deal.

“KFC Beyond Fried Chicken is so delicious, our customers will find it difficult to tell that it’s plant-based,” KFC president Kevin Hochman said in a statement. “I think we’ve all heard ‘It tastes like chicken’ — well, our customers are going to be amazed and say, ‘It tastes like Kentucky Fried Chicken!’”

OTHER FAST-FOOD CHAINS WITH VEGAN MENUS

MCDONALD’S:

In March, McDonald’s officially introduced vegan “chicken” nuggets to its menu in Norway. While it’s yet to be introduced in Australia, in May this year we got the all-new 2019 McVeggie burger.

In May, Macca's trialled an all-new burger in South Australia. Source: Supplied

McDonald’s vegan nuggets are only available in Norway, but the new veggie burger patty is made with the same ingredients. Picture: McDonald’s

South Australia was picked as the first state to trial the healthy option. McDonald’s Australia is yet to announce if it will remain a permanent fixture on the menu.

Jo Feeney, marketing director at McDonald’s Australia, said: “We understand there’s a rising demand for vegetarian options, and we always look to give our customers more of what they want.

“We’re excited to be trialling the McVeggie burger in South Australia so our customers can give us feedback on it before we look to serve it up across the country.”

Currently, Macca’s vegan options are limited to french fries and hash browns.

McDonald's introduced a vegan burger to 270 outlets across Scandinavia. Source: Twitter

HUNGRY JACKS:

Late last year, Hungry Jacks Australia debuted its vegan cheeseburger — a double vegan patty (made from corn, capsicum and carrot), vegan cheese and vegan mayonnaise with tomato sauce, onions, tomato and lettuce on a seeded bun.

It’s also got vegan breakfast muffins.

Hey Vegans, this new Cheeseburger’s for you.

🥦 Two Hungry Jack’s veggie patties
🧀 Vegan Cheese
🍅 Fresh salad
👌 Vegan Mayo

Because everyone deserves a better burger. pic.twitter.com/BxnR69pRED

— Hungry Jack's (@HungryJacksAU) October 2, 2018