This year’s Plant Based World Expo North America brought the world’s flavors to the Javits Center, with innovative plant-based brands spotlighting cuisines from around the globe. Companies highlighted the powerful potential of international flavors to resonate with consumers seeking both exotic and familiar taste experiences—an area in which plant-based products are thriving. Here’s a look at the top exhibitors leading the charge with globally-inspired offerings:

1. Shicken: Authentic Indian Kebabs from the UK

Shicken’s booth drew in attendees with their flavorful plant-based Shicken Tikka Kebab Skewers, a truly authentic experience crafted by chefs using recipes passed down through generations. The skewers offered a meaty texture infused with bold spices that transport you to a gourmet Indian dining experience. Their UK-made products are also gluten-free, nut-free, and soy-free, adding appeal for consumers with dietary restrictions while providing a high-quality, authentic flavor profile. These skewers would be a great addition to both retail and foodservice menus, tapping into the growing demand for accessible Indian-inspired cuisine.

2. Caribbean Food Delights: Plant-Based Patties Bursting with Flavor

For an unforgettable Caribbean twist, Caribbean Food Delights showcased their popular plant-based patties. These empanada-style, flaky pastry pockets are filled with options like curry and jerk BBQ. A hit among expo attendees, these patties feature jackfruit, known for its versatile texture and nutrient profile, as the meaty base in many of their offerings. Suitable for both the retail frozen aisle and café menus, these patties provide a convenient, globally inspired snack or meal option that requires minimal kitchen preparation, making them ideal for both at-home consumers and foodservice.

3. Konscious Foods: Japanese-Inspired Sushi and Poke Bowls

Konscious Foods, a standout at the expo, wowed attendees with their plant-based sushi options, including onigiri, California rolls, and poke bowls. Founded by Yves Potvin, a pioneer in the plant-based sector, Konscious brings together authentic flavors of Japanese cuisine in convenient, frozen formats ideal for retail. These sushi offerings have set a high bar for taste and convenience, perfectly aligning with current consumer interest in globally inspired and sustainable plant-based seafood. Konscious Foods’ range is particularly attractive for retailers aiming to offer unique, ready-to-eat plant-based options that excite and delight.

4. Cock and Bull: A British Classic Goes Plant-Based

Formerly known as Jampas, Cock and Bull brought British cuisine to the forefront with their plant-based “pork pies.” Chef Richard Fox, a TV personality from the UK, showcased flaky pastry pies filled with a savory, plant-based filling that had attendees curious—and coming back for more. The bold new name and traditional flavors put a fresh spin on a British favorite, appealing to North American consumers’ love for comfort foods with a twist. With its high-quality, chef-prepared approach, Cock and Bull is ready to introduce plant-based British classics to a broader audience.

5. Brioche Gourmet: French Brioche Meets Plant-Based Innovation

Brioche Gourmet, already known for their premium French breads, took the opportunity to highlight their sustainable and plant-based-friendly brioche options. By eliminating palm oil, minimizing production waste, and using eco-friendly packaging, Brioche Gourmet’s offerings cater to the environmentally conscious consumer while maintaining the luxurious texture and taste associated with traditional brioche. As more consumers seek sustainability, Brioche Gourmet’s commitment to responsible sourcing and production makes their bread an appealing choice for both the plant-based and premium markets.

A World of Opportunity

From plant-based sushi to authentic Indian kebabs, this year’s Plant Based World Expo proved that globally inspired flavors resonate strongly in the plant-based market. Each of these exhibitors showcased not only innovative recipes but also how traditional flavors from around the world can be reimagined for plant-based consumers. As demand for international flavors grows, these companies are primed to make a global impact on the way plant-based foods are perceived and enjoyed.

Be sure to register for the upcoming Plant Based World Expo Europe, taking place Nov 13-14 at ExCel London, to taste the trend for yourself.