The fast-food chain Jack in the box launches its first meatless option at a test location in NV, Reno, and California. The patty of the sandwich is produced by Tyson – owned Raised & Rooted brand.
In the box, Jack introduced the first-ever plant-based chicken sandwich and named it “Unchicken Sandwich.”
They have been put to the test these markets from October 15 to December 12 or until the supplies will last. The burger features a split-up bun, lettuce,non-vegan mayo, and tomato. It is available in spicy and classic flavors.
The Unchicken sandwich combo will be priced at $6.99, which are in the line up with the pricing of other sandwiches on the menu. The chicken used as a substitute is an alternative derived from pea protein.
Jen Kennedy, SVP chief product and innovation officer at Jack in the Box, said, “Their team was indulged in deep plant-based research when we decided to partner.”
She also said, “Jack in the box is delivering market-leading alternation with the first plant-based chicken sandwich at retail in the US.”
Further, she added, “We are excited to meet the upsurging demand for meatless alternatives in the market with our new unchicken sandwich. It will be providing a tempting taste, tangy flavor, and crispy crunch plant-based option.
Jack in the box is the second largest fast-food chain who will be testing the meatless chicken. Last August, KFC, the largest chicken serving fast-food chain, added Beyond fried chicken to its menu at its Atlanta-located stores. The response to it was so overwhelming that it sold out in less than 5 hours.
Keeping into consideration the response they got, KFC expanded the test to 70 locations in TN, NC, Nashville, Charlotte, and surrounding areas. In July, the test further expanded to more than 50 locations in southern California in July 2020.
Such sale results indicate that the market for more plant-based alternatives has been expanding. However, adding to the allure of the so-called chicken sandwich, the Popeyes ignited the war, and there are so many reasons for Jack in the box to sustain the market.
However, the popular food chain didn’t disclose its sales mix, but Kennedy did confirm that chicken is a top purchased product across the industry. She said, “ Since there has been an explosion in the popularity of chicken, we wanted to introduce the plant-based option to space rather than launching the predictable meatless burger patty.”
The Food Institue reports 65% of Gen Z consumers are more focused on plant-based diet while 79% choose to go meatless.
Further, she added, “Chicken is definitely having its moment, and so does plant-based protein too.”
As there is a shift in how consumers are approaching their food choices as they incorporate variety into their diets. Kennedy said that “As the industry continues to show growing interest in plant-based food consumption. Our Jack’s Unchicken Sandwiches are a timely launch and a perfect addition to the menu, enticing both plant and meat-eaters. If the test is successful, we will be ushered through the runway of further transformation in this lane.”
