KFC has launched its first-ever vegan burger.
The fried chicken fast-food chain is trialing a plant-based version of its classic Original Recipe Fillet Burger, named The Imposter, which will be available in selected restaurants in London, Bristol and the Midlands from Monday (17.06.19) for a four-week period.
Victoria Robertson, Chief Vegetable Enthusiast at KFC UK & Ireland said in a statement: “We know… it’s unfair. Vegans have been cruelly denied the incredible taste of KFC up to now, which is why we’ve worked hard to perfect The Imposter – a vegan burger that the Colonel would be proud of.”
KFC’s customary real chicken breast fillet has been replaced with a Quorn fillet, coated in the Colonel’s signature Original Recipe concoction of 11 herbs and spices. The much-anticipated treat will also feature fresh iceberg lettuce, creamy vegan mayo that will all be housed in a soft glazed bun.
Tony Davison, Head of Global Foodservice & QSR at Quorn commented: “A vegan KFC? We couldn’t believe it either. But we’ve done it – working with KFC we’ve created a bespoke Quorn fillet that does the Colonel’s recipe justice. We have no doubt that KFC fans are going to love the modern take on a finger-lickin’ favorite.”
KFC is a major international fast food brand known for its unique deep-fried chicken. According to a 2013 report by The Daily Meal, the franchise has nearly 20,000 locations worldwide and over $23 billion in revenue. The move to include a vegan option could offer restaurant patrons a healthier choice; as fast food is often known for its high calorific values.
The new Quorn fillet will also have a great impact on environmental conservation as a 2015 Daily Mail report pointed out up to 23 million chickens are reared for meat for Kentucky Fried Chicken outlets. As one of the UK’s most popular fast food chains, it sells almost 400 pieces of chicken every minute.