Food and Beverage Business
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Protein-Powered Innovation Transforms the Plant-Based Aisle

Protein-Powered Innovation Transforms the Plant-Based Aisle alternative protein, Consumer trends, Food Industry, food innovation, plant-based, plant-based foods, Protein Innovation, Sustainability Food and Beverage Business

Squeaky Bean is expanding its high-protein, ready-to-eat portfolio with the launch of Ready to Eat BBQ Pulled Pork Style Shreds. The first-to-market, plant-based product has been created for consumers seeking convenient, protein-rich meal options.

Research shows that 68% of plant-based shoppers would consider buying a plant-based pulled pork product, giving Squeaky Bean a strong opportunity to respond to rising demand for versatile meat-free foods that support modern eating habits.

 

new protein format for Squeaky Bean

Produced with wheat protein and coated in a rich, smoky BBQ marinade, the new shreds are designed to deliver the tender, pull-apart texture associated with traditional pulled pork. Every 120g pack provides 30g of protein, meeting the growing interest in protein-maxxing as consumers look for straightforward ways to increase their daily intake.

The product can be eaten directly from the pack or warmed before serving. Its adaptable format suits a wide range of occasions, including bao buns, wraps, rice bowls, loaded fries and salads. This versatility reflects wider food and drink consumer trends, particularly the demand for plant-based products that fit easily into busy lifestyles.

Squeaky Bean BBQ Pulled Pork Style Shreds will launch in Sainsbury’s on 16 September 2026, with a 120g pack carrying an RRP of £3.40.

 

Continued momentum for the core range

The launch introduces Squeaky Bean to a new protein format while building on the strong performance of its established products, including NYC Style Pastrami Slices, Tuna Style Flakes and Chargrilled Cajun Style Mini Fillets.

Across the latest 12 weeks, the range has delivered value sales 22% ahead of the wider market. This performance reinforces the brand’s contribution to category growth and reflects broader food and beverage industry trends around convenience, protein and plant-based eating.

The launch also demonstrates how food and drink industry innovation is shaping product development, with food manufacturing trends, food processing technology and food distribution trends supporting more flexible ready-to-eat solutions. Alongside product innovation, brands must increasingly consider food and drink sustainability, food and drink regulations, food and drink packaging and food and drink marketing when bringing new products to market.

 

Innovation designed around the category

Becky Youseman, head of plant based marketing at The Compleat Food Group, said the new shreds respond directly to changing consumer priorities:

“Consumers are increasingly looking for convenient ways to add more protein to their diets without compromising on taste. With 30g of protein per pack and the flexibility to enjoy them straight from pack or heated as part of a meal, our BBQ Pulled Pork Style Shreds make it easier than ever.”

She added that the launch “recreates the taste, texture and eating experience of pulled pork, while offering consumers a convenient protein-packed alternative,” demonstrating Squeaky Bean’s continued focus on products that combine convenience, versatility and flavour.

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