Nando’s launches its first-ever plant-based meat alternative

Nando’s has announced it is launching its first-ever plant-based meat alternative in restaurants across the country.

Aptly named The Great Imitator, the new product was crafted to taste just like its signature PERi-PERi chicken breast fillet, but is made entirely from Pea Protein.

The Great Imitator is available in restaurants from today (October 13) the new plant based product is aimed at flexitarians - a person who has a primarily vegetarian diet but occasionally eats meat or fish - who want to cut back on their meat intake but do not want to compromise on the great taste of PERi-PERi.

The new product will be served as four strips that are grilled to order and sit on the menu as part of the burgers, pittas and wraps category.

Nando’s fans will still be able to turn up the heat, by choosing their desired level of spice on the PERi-ometer, as they would with their usual Nando’s order.

The launch comes as part of a move to cater to changing dietary habits of its loyal fans as well as develop more sustainable product options reducing the carbon footprint of every Nando’s meal.

Dawn Carr, director of Vegan Corporate Projects, PETA, says: "PETA is delighted to have played a part in Nando's journey to putting this delicious plant-based chicken on the table.

"Nando's can't guarantee zero risk of cross-contamination, so it's not calling it vegan, but as all the ingredients in the burger and pitta versions are completely animal-free – right down to the mayo – we say these are an excellent choice for vegans, vegetarians, meat-reducers, and chickens. Cluck yes!"

Sticking with the plant-based theme, the Great Imitator isn’t the only new item coming to the October Nando’s menu.

Those looking for the perfect starter to share can now tuck into some Sweet Potato Wedges with Garlic PERinaise, both are plant based and 10p from each purchase goes to Nando’s Fighting Marlia.

Garlic PERinaise is also now available as a condiment along with PERi BBQ for all those PERi Tamer fans out there.

The Great Imitator and Sweet Potato Wedges with Garlic PERinaise will both be available to all flexitarian and PERi-PERi fans across restaurants and delivery nationwide from today (Tuesday).