Vegan cheddar flavour cheese alternative
Plant-based cheese alternative maker Violife Foods said that it is taking 'proactive measures' to safeguard supply in the face of the COVID-19 outbreak as it unveiled a new product: EPIC mature cheddar flavour.
The UK company said this investment in product development reflects ongoing demand for vegan alternatives as well as its 'full confidence' in continuing NPD and its supply chain.
The primary product, an EPIC mature cheddar block, was rolled out in January and this will be joined by a grated product.
Thanos Korokas, head of R&D for Violife Foods, commented: “As the leading vegan alternative to cheese, which owns 88% of the branded dairy-free alternative to cheese market, we have a responsibility to give our customers new ingredient inspirations for use when preparing vegan meals.
“With many of us having to stay at home over the coming weeks, Violife’s vegan and flexitarian communities will still be able to create delicious vegan dishes that all the family can enjoy as we ensure that the Violife range, including the new EPIC Mature Cheddar Flavour Block, continues to be supplied to retailers.”
Outlining its response to coronavirus, Violife said it has taken measures at its factory 'to keep its workers safe'. These include: staggered shifts patterns to reduce contact, provision of protective clothing and disinfectant solutions to ensure high levels of hygiene and the strict health screening of all workers.
Within its supply chain logistics, the brand has ensured the flow of raw materials continues from its suppliers by evaluating the flow of stock and placing advance orders, especially on key ingredients and packaging.
This contingency planning has allowed the brand to continue to drive forward its innovation line, as planned, the company explained.