IKEA to launch plant-based versions of its iconic meatballs in Europe

Mohsina Dodhiya16th July 20209th October 2020Food, News

‘With the new plant ball we can now offer meat lovers a great tasting, more sustainable alternative – without compromising on the IKEA meatball experience that is loved by so many’

IKEA has announced the launch of new vegan meatballs- a plant-based version of its iconic meatballs.

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Called Plant Balls, the new meat-free versions are made from yellow pea protein, oats, potatoes, onion, and apple, however ‘look and taste like meat’ with the “same delicious taste and texture” as the original dish.

Ikea to launch plant-based versions of its iconic meatballs Europe — Yellow pea protein, potato, onion, apple and oat bran rolled into a ball. Image: Ikea

In line with IKEA’s pact to become climate positive by 2030, the new balls are ‘a more sustainable sibling to the much-loved meatball’. Each plant ball totals just 4 percent of the climate footprint of its meat counterpart, which means one meatball has the same climate footprint of 24 plant balls.

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What do you get if you roll yellow pea protein, potato, onion, apple and oat bran into a ball? Our friends from IKEA Today talked to Susanne about the new IKEA plant ball that will challenge the traditional Swedish meatball, and the trial and errors that led them to the perfect recipe. Check @ikeatoday for full story! (Link in bio) #plantball #ikea #ikeatoday #ikeafood

A post shared by IKEA Food Services AB (@ikeafoodservices) on Feb 19, 2020 at 1:06am PST

‘Positive impact’

“At IKEA, we are committed to having a positive impact on people and the planet,” Hege Sæbjørnsen, Country Sustainability Manager, IKEA UK and Ireland, said in a statement.

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“In order to reduce the climate footprint of the total IKEA business, including our food business, and make climate friendly, delicious food available for everyone, we are making sure meat alternatives are an easy, desirable and affordable choice.

“With the new plant ball we can now offer meat lovers a great tasting, more sustainable alternative – without compromising on the IKEA meatball experience that is loved by so many.”

From August 3, the vegan balls priced at £2.75 for a 500g bag at the Swedish Food Market, and £1.50 for portion of 8 at any IKEA Bistro, will be available across 290 locations in Europe, with other countries to follow in the coming months. The Plant Balls will also be available at IKEA restaurants from 26th October.