Skip to main content

Juicy Marbles: Europe’s Plant-Based Whole-Cut Pioneer Enters the US Market 

Written by Benjamin Davis on . Posted in Global Marketplace, Manufacturing, Products, Retail.

Slovenian startup Juicy Marbles, a leader in the plant-based whole-cut meat category, has announced its highly anticipated entry into the U.S. retail market. Known for their high-end filet mignon steaks, loins, and baby back ribs, Juicy Marbles is redefining the boundaries of what plant-based meat can be. 

The company’s expansion builds on its success in Europe, where its products are sold in 3,500 stores across major retailers like Tesco, Sainsbury, and Whole Foods. With plans to secure profitability by the end of 2025, Juicy Marbles is not only a brand to watch but also a key player in the global evolution of plant-based foods. 

 

A Pioneer in Whole-Cut Plant-Based Innovation 

Juicy Marbles has distinguished itself in the plant-based market by focusing on whole cuts—a category often considered the “holy grail” of plant-based meat. Using a proprietary extrusion-like process, the company replicates the texture and fibers of animal meat while injecting fat and adding color to create a realistic steak experience. 

“Our products deliver the premium, indulgent experience that consumers crave, without the ethical and environmental trade-offs of traditional meat,” said CEO Tilen Travnik. 

 

Why the U.S. Market Matters 

While Juicy Marbles has built a strong following in Europe, its U.S. expansion signals a new chapter for the brand. A pivotal moment came when the company was mentioned in the Netflix documentary You Are What You Eat, which doubled their online revenue in the U.S. However, Travnik recognizes the challenges of scaling online sales in the U.S. due to the high costs of temperature-controlled shipping. 

The company has secured a key U.S. distributor and aims to make its products widely available in retail stores this year. “In the U.S., our customers range from hardcore vegans to flexitarians, and even meat eaters looking for premium plant-based alternatives,” noted Travnik. 

 

A New Product for Accessibility 

To broaden its appeal, Juicy Marbles is developing a new product at a lower price point. “We want to retain the features consumers love while manufacturing more efficiently,” explained Travnik. This move aligns with the company’s strategy to expand its consumer base while maintaining its high-quality standards. 

 

Collaboration and the Future of Plant-Based Meat 

Juicy Marbles is also exploring hybrid approaches to plant-based meat, collaborating with precision fermentation and cell culture startups. The goal is to integrate these technologies to enhance the flavor and functionality of their products. “The future of plant-based meat is hybrid,” said Travnik. “Plant-based will form the bulk, with precision fermentation and cell culture adding functional components.” 

 

Positioning in a Changing Market 

As the plant-based industry matures, Juicy Marbles is navigating what Travnik calls the “trough of disillusionment,” where consumers are demanding higher-quality products. By delivering premium experiences, the brand is poised to not just survive but thrive, even as market growth stabilizes. 

 

What to Expect in 2025 

With its U.S. retail launch, a pipeline of innovative products, and a commitment to redefining plant-based whole cuts, Juicy Marbles is setting the stage for a transformative year. Retailers stocking their products will offer consumers an experience that bridges the gap between indulgence and sustainability. 

Juicy Marbles’ bold expansion into the U.S. highlights the growing importance of whole-cut plant-based meats as a cornerstone of the future food landscape.  

Industry Beat: Stand Out Plant-Based Companies 2025 – Part 1

Written by Benjamin Davis on . Posted in Products, Retail, The Industry Beat.

By Benjamin Davis, Content Chair, Plant Based World 

Being deeply embedded in the plant-based food industry, I often get asked which companies truly stand out. What are the brands that combine innovation, taste, and quality in ways that resonate with consumers? Well, let me introduce you to my fridge staples—five standout companies that consistently deliver, offering a plant-based meal concept that hits the spot 100% of the time. 

Today, I want to kick off a new series spotlighting five stand-out plant-based companies that are redefining their categories. Together, these brands make up my dream team for the ultimate plant-based deli experience. Retailers take note: if your store shelves have all these products in stock, you’re almost guaranteed to win customers like me who are looking for a one-stop-shop to build the perfect plant-based meal. 

 

  1. Plant Provisions: A Deli Lover’s Dream

Plant Provisions redefines what deli “meat” can be with their slices made entirely from whole plant ingredients like chickpeas, sweet potatoes, peppers, beets, and carrots. Flavors such as chipotle, mesquite, Tuscan, and smokehouse deliver the satisfaction of a classic deli sandwich with a wholesome, veggie-forward profile. 

I first discovered Plant Provisions at Earth Fare here in Asheville, NC, and now I’m on a mission to see these slices on more shelves, both natural and conventional. They’re not just a product; they’re a game-changer for sandwich lovers, and they form the cornerstone of my daily lunch spread. 

 

  1. Violife: The Cheese That Raises the Bar

One of the biggest trends to watch in 2025 is the rise of plant-based cheeses that “wow” even hardcore cheese lovers. Violife is already leading the way. Their sandwich slices, especially the mature cheddar flavor, perfectly complement Plant Provisions’ deli slices for a plant-based deli experience that satisfies on every level. 

What sets Violife apart? They’re allergen-friendly, avoiding gluten, nuts, and soy, which makes them accessible to a broader audience. Whether it’s their cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, or sandwich slices, Violife consistently delivers a cheese experience worth raving about. 

 

  1. Dave’s Killer Bread: Trustworthy and Wholesome

In a category often dominated by heavily processed products, Dave’s Killer Bread is a beacon of quality. Their breads are packed with seeds and grains, delivering a fresh-baked experience that feels as wholesome as it tastes. 

When it comes to crafting my perfect sandwich, Dave’s is my go-to. Whether it’s their loaves, bagels, or burger buns, the Dave’s logo is all I need to see to know I’m making the right choice. 

 

  1. Bitchin’ Sauce: King of Sauces

No sandwich is complete without Bitchin’ Sauce. The chipotle flavor is a staple, and its bold, almond-based creaminess eliminates the need for any other condiments. One swipe of Bitchin’ on Dave’s Killer Bread, paired with Plant Provisions slices and Violife cheddar, and lunch is served. 

Bitchin’ Sauce comes in a variety of flavors like buffalo, cilantro chili, and spinach artichoke, but for me, chipotle reigns supreme. It’s the sauce that keeps me coming back time and time again. 

 

  1. Ithaca Hummus: A Flavor Revolution

If Bitchin’ Sauce is the king of sauces, Ithaca Hummus is the king of hummus. With bold flavors like lemon dill, beet garlic, and jalapeño lime, Ithaca elevates a simple hummus into a culinary experience. 

Ithaca’s lemon garlic flavor, in particular, adds a fresh, zesty kick to sandwiches or serves as the perfect dip for carrots or chips. It’s a shining example of how a traditional product can be taken to the next level with quality ingredients and creative execution. 

 

Takeaways for Retailers 

Retailers who stock these five brands together can create a one-stop shop for customers looking to craft the perfect plant-based sandwich or snack spread. Each brand offers something unique, but together, they form a harmonious meal experience that keeps customers like me coming back for more. 

For aspiring plant-based companies, the lesson here is clear: Innovate with purpose, prioritize quality, and focus on creating memorable food experiences. That’s how you stand out in 2025 and beyond. 

Stay tuned for more articles exploring the plant-based companies that are delivering on quality and flavor, and mark your calendars for Plant Based World Expo North America and Europe to taste it for yourself this fall!

Superfoodio Launches Peanut Butter Better Cups in UK Supermarkets 

Written by Benjamin Davis on . Posted in Products, Retail.

Superfoodio, a UK-based better-for-you snack brand, has unveiled its latest product innovation: Peanut Butter Better Cups, now available in over 130 Co-op stores nationwide. This launch marks the brand’s entry into the growing better-for-you confectionery market, offering a unique twist on the traditional peanut butter cup by focusing on natural ingredients and plant-based nutrition. 

The Peanut Butter Better Cups feature a creamy peanut butter center encased in a peanut butter-based shell, forgoing conventional chocolate coatings. The product is available in three flavors: The Original, PB & Jelly, and No Added Sugar, catering to a variety of consumer preferences. 

A Response to Consumer Demand 

According to Superfoodio’s co-founders, Nirali and Jagir Mankodi, the Better Cups were developed in response to the success of their Peanut Butter Buttons range, which highlighted a growing demand for indulgent yet wholesome snack options. 

“This isn’t just a snack; it’s a love letter to peanut butter aficionados everywhere,” said Nirali Mankodi.  

Jagir Mankodi added, “Our ethos of ‘Getting Back to the Basics of Food’ ensures every product is made with 100% natural ingredients, free from palm oil, refined sugars, stabilizers, and artificial additives. With this approach, we’re confident the Better Cups will resonate with today’s health-conscious consumers.” 

Retail and Online Availability 

Currently, The Original Peanut Butter Better Cups are stocked in Co-op stores across the UK. The full range is also available for purchase online through Amazon and the Superfoodio website, with additional retail listings expected in the coming months. 

Category Innovation 

The Better Cups aim to disrupt the confectionery aisle by combining indulgence with health-focused benefits. By emphasizing vegan, gluten-free, and sustainable attributes, Superfoodio is positioning the product as a standout option in the competitive snack sector. 

Superfoodio’s focus on plant-powered snacks aligns with broader trends in the UK food market, where demand for vegan and better-for-you products continues to rise. This launch underscores the brand’s commitment to innovation while staying true to its mission of delivering snacks that are both delicious and sustainable. 

About Superfoodio 

Founded by Nirali and Jagir Mankodi, Superfoodio is a family-owned business with a passion for creating snacks that prioritize both flavor and health. The brand’s mission extends beyond the plate, aiming to make a positive impact on people and the planet. 

For more information on Peanut Butter Better Cups and Superfoodio’s product range, contact: 

Follow Superfoodio on social media: @superfoodio 

As the Better Cups roll out, Superfoodio is well-positioned to capture the attention of buyers and consumers seeking innovative, natural snack options. With a focus on quality and sustainability, the brand continues to carve out its niche in the evolving world of plant-based snacking. 

Introducing the NECTAR Tasty Awards: Recognizing Excellence in Plant-Based Innovation 

Written by Benjamin Davis on . Posted in Industry updates, Products.

Mark your calendars: March 12, 2025, marks a milestone in the plant-based food movement with the inaugural NECTAR Tasty Awards, taking place in San Francisco at the historic venue, The Melody. This event, spearheaded by Food Systems Innovations, promises to redefine the way we recognize and reward excellence in alternative proteins. 

In a world where plant-based products are at the forefront of food innovation, the Tasty Awards aim to address a critical challenge highlighted in a recent New York Times article: the need for plant-based meats to win over traditional meat eaters by delivering superior taste and a truly meat-like experience. 

A New Standard for Plant-Based Excellence 

The NECTAR Tasty Awards are unlike any other accolades in the industry. Instead of merely rewarding participation or innovation, this event sets a high bar: products must impress meat eaters to earn recognition. As David Meyer, founder of Food Systems Innovations, puts it: 

“This is not an event where we are simply awarding the best product. If no products impress meat eaters, none will get awarded. But if multiple do, they will all be recognized.” 

This approach underscores the event’s mission to not just celebrate innovation but to push the industry toward creating products that can genuinely compete with animal-based proteins on taste and texture. 

Why the Tasty Awards Matter 

Buyers have been faced with a plethora of meat alternatives to stock on shelves and menus, particularly over the past 5 years as the plant-based meat industry has taken off. However, many of these products have not survived the shifting market, failing to produce repeat customers. This is why taste is so important. Many grocery shoppers or restaurant customers will try something once, but only the tastiest products will win continued purchases. 

This awards ceremony is designed to bridge that gap by spotlighting the products that succeed in overcoming these hurdles. For buyers in retail and foodservice, the Tasty Awards offer a chance to identify the products that resonate most with mainstream consumers. Being among the first to stock or serve these award-winning products will provide a competitive edge in a growing market. 

 

An Evening of Culinary Innovation 

The NECTAR Tasty Awards will be an immersive experience, blending the celebration of taste with a showcase of cutting-edge food technology. Highlights include: 

  • Award Ceremony: Be part of the dramatic unveiling of the first-ever consumer-chosen alternative protein awards. 
  • Exclusive Tastings: Sample culinary creations featuring award-winning plant-based products. 
  • Craft Mocktails: Sip on innovative non-alcoholic beverages that push the boundaries of flavor. 
  • Networking and Inspiration: Connect with a curated audience of 150 visionaries, including chefs, food tech leaders, and industry enthusiasts. 

 

A Must-Attend Event for Food Innovators 

The NECTAR Tasty Awards are more than just an awards show—they’re a movement to reshape the future of food. With limited capacity and an emphasis on exclusivity, the event is poised to become a marquee moment in plant-based history. 

For retailers and foodservice professionals, this is an opportunity to gain early insights into the products poised to lead the market in 2025 and beyond.  

🎟️ Tickets are limited – secure your spot now to ensure you don’t miss this groundbreaking event.