Pizza Hut introduced a plant-based pizza option, meeting the needs of consumers who have gone meatless. In a partnership with Beyond Meat, the companies released the Beyond Pepperoni Pizza, which is covered with a plant-based take on the classic topping.
In another move by Yum! Brands to meet the needs of meat-free consumers, KFC debuted its Beyond Fried Chicken in August 2019 as the first quick-service restaurant to offer a plant-based chicken alternative. Since then, the company has expanded Beyond Fried Chicken into more restaurants across the United States.
“The mission from day one was simple — make the world-famous Kentucky Fried Chicken from plants,” said Kevin Hochman, president, KFC US. “And now over two years later we can say, ‘mission accomplished.’”
Taco Bell also has followed where consumer trends lead and joined the chicken sandwich competition with its take on the popular menu item. The chain released a “not quite sandwich, not quite taco” Crispy Chicken Sandwich in August 2021.
“Our new crispy chicken innovation is far from the average chicken sandwich, and we're certain it will get a spicy reaction from sandwich and taco fans alike,” said Liz Matthews, global chief food innovation officer for Taco Bell. “Even the masterminds from our test kitchen couldn't decide if it was more taco or sandwich, which is why we're excited to bring in the debate team experts to have some fun.”
Yum! Brands’ subsidiaries are each adding items to their menus that reflect and meet consumer demands.
