Taco Bell (NYSE: YUM) and Beyond Meat announced their first collaboration: Beyond Carne Asada Steak. The new menu item will be tentatively available at dozens of restaurants in Dayton, Ohio, starting next month.
The vegan steak option is meant to imitate the chain’s existing marinated steak in both flavor and texture, without containing any animal-derived ingredients. According to Taco Bell’s Director of Global Nutrition & Sustainability, the company is lacking in plant-based options and pointed out that there has been a lot of innovation regarding plant-based proteins.
“We know that consumers are looking for diverse protein options that are better for the planet without compromising on taste, so we’re incredibly excited to launch our brand-new, innovative Beyond Carne Asada Steak,” Dariush Ajami, Beyond Meat’s Chief Innovation Officer, said in a statement. “Designed to specifically complement the bold, savory flavors that Taco Bell is known for, Beyond Carne Asada Steak delivers the flavorful, delicious taste and texture of marinated, grilled steak with the added benefits of plant-based meat.”
Taco bell is prepared to serve Beyond Carne Asada in its quesadilla, though customers can opt to use the meat alternative for other orders as well. The steak substitute contains wheat gluten and faba bean protein to replicate the texture and taste of traditional meat. The trial is set to help the company determine the demand for Beyond Carne Asada.