• Impossible Foods, a California-based producer of plant-based meat alternatives, announced the launch of two new plant-based meat options aimed specifically at K-12 school cafeteria lunches. Under this initiative, the company will launch a fully pre-cooked impossible burger patty and a plant-based whole grain nugget.

• The burger patty is designed to be easily reheated in a multitude of ways (microwave, griddle, oven, or Turbochef Tornado) depending on the cafeteria facilities. The whole grain nugget, which is set to launch in the second half of the 2022–2023 school year, is said to be identical to Impossible Chicken Nuggets but with more fiber per serving. Additionally, it is claimed to contain 13 grams of protein per serving and 40% less saturated fat compared to its animal counterparts.

AnalystQuickTake: Impossible Foods is not a new name when it comes to school cafeteria lunches, with nearly 500 schools across the US serving its products. The new product launch follows the decision by the State of California to invest USD 700 million in support of school lunches, out of which USD 100 million is earmarked for procuring plant-based options. The remainder is to be used for upgrading kitchen infrastructure as well as training and compensation for handling plant-based meats.