KFC Considers Adding Plant-Based Meat on Its Menu

American fast food chain KFC is currently exploring the feasibility of having plant-based meat substitutes on its menu. Kevin Hochman, the President of KFC United States, said in an interview that the fast food giant has been meeting with suppliers of alternative protein. He admitted that previously, he was not open to the idea of adding plant-based alternatives on KFC’s list of food choices. However, as the plant-based meat trend continues to become more popular, the fast food chain is starting to consider the possibility. Recently, many consumers have been switching to a healthier lifestyle and becoming more mindful of their food choices. As a result, plant-based diet has been gaining popularity and a number of restaurants and fast food chains are joining the hype. In fact, a research firm estimates that the plant-based meat market could be worth up to $2.5 billion by 2023. Some of the fast food chains and restaurants that have already jumped on the bandwagon of plant-based meat are TGI Fridays, Carl’s Jr., and Tim Horton’s. Burger King will also be launching its own version of a meatless burger. In spite of how quickly the trend is catching on, however, KFC clarified that it does not plan to offer plant-based chicken meat anytime soon. A KFC spokesperson said that the company is still watching the trend closely and learning as much as it can. Fast food competitor McDonald's shares the same sentiment and is also remaining cautious about entering the plant-based market. McDonald’s CEO Steve Easterbrook said that the company is still trying to understand meat alternatives better and monitoring consumers’ behavior toward it.