Taco Bell is testing a plant-based protein separate from the previously announced meat alternatives that it is developing with Beyond Meat.
Taco Bell’s new proprietary plant-based protein is created in-house at the Taco Bell Test Kitchen. It is the star of the fast food chain’s new menu item called Cravetarian Taco, which is basically a meatless version of the Crunchy Taco Supreme.
Instead of ground beef, the Cravetarian Taco features the restaurant’s very own plant-based protein made from a blend of peas and chickpeas. In addition to the protein, the taco also includes shredded cheddar cheese, crisp lettuce, diced tomatoes, and reduced-fat sour cream, which is all served in a crunchy corn shell.
For vegan customers, they can always order the Cravetarian Taco without the cheddar cheese and sour cream.
While made for the Cravetarian Taco, this vegan meat can be substituted for beef in any menu item at no additional charge. While especially made for the Cravetarian Taco, the plant-based protein can be substituted for beef in any menu item at no additional charge.
The Cravetarian Taco is only being tested at one Taco Bell restaurant, which is located at 14042 Red Hill Avenue in Tustin, California. But if the test run is successful, the menu item will likely roll out to more locations across the country. Priced at $2.19, the Cravetarian Taco is available until April 29th or while supplies last.
“By testing and offering a wide breadth of meatless options, Taco Bell doubles down on its pledge to bring more innovation to the vegetarian space,” the quick service restaurant said in a statement. “Fans who are vegetarians, veggie-curious and meat-eaters will be bound to find their next plant-based obsession.”
The plant-based meats that Taco Bell is developing with Beyond Meat are scheduled to be tested at a number of U.S. locations later this year.