This will be the brand’s first foray into plant-based meat in the USA.
Taco Bell is starting fresh in 2021, especially with its vegetarian fans. The brand is kicking the year off with the return of potatoes and exploring a new plant-based protein with Beyond Meat.
After a brief hiatus from menus due to Taco Bell’s menu simplification efforts last year, Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes and the Spicy Potato Soft Taco will be back starting March 11. Taco Bell is also teaming up with Beyond Meat to create an innovative new plant-based protein that will be tested in the next year. Although Taco Bell has long been a destination for vegetarians, this will be the brand’s first foray into plant-based meat in the U.S.
“The return of our beloved potatoes is just the first step in showing our fans the strong continued commitment to vegetarian we are making this year,” said Liz Matthews, Taco Bell’s Global Chief Food Innovation Officer. “We have long been a leader in the vegetarian space, but this year, we have more meatless options in store that vegetarians, veggie-curious and even meat-eaters will love.”
Vegetarian isn’t just a trend for Taco Bell. The brand has had meatless menu items like the bean burrito for many years, was the first QSR to partner with the American Vegetarian Association (AVA) back in 2015, and currently has over 30 vegetarian ingredients on the U.S. menu. With offerings like pulled-oats vegan protein throughout Europe or the Halloumi Crunchwrap that was offered in Cyprus, people can enjoy mouth-watering vegetarian creations from Taco Bell locations around the world.