Plant-based news – October 2026

October brought another wave of plant-based launches, reformulations and retail expansions across Europe and the US. This month, the strongest trends included high-protein products, convenient everyday formats and more functional, application-focused recipes.

🌱 4.5.0 has developed a high-performance nutrition bar in collaboration with sports nutrition experts and Ukrainian soldiers, with the primary goal of supporting endurance in extreme conditions. Each bar provides 19 g of plant protein from pea protein isolate and faba bean protein isolate, with added L-methionine, alongside 21-25 g of carbohydrates and 11-14 g of fat. The fat sources include almond paste, flaxseed oil and coconut oil. The bars are available in two flavours: Chocolate and Cinnamon Twist.

🌱 Planeat entered Kaufland stores in Poland for the first time. From October 22, selected locations started offering Kurak (chicken alternative), Burgery Mexico and Nielone (minced meat alternative). The listing marks another step in the brand’s retail expansion and reflects the growing presence of Polish plant-based products in major supermarket chains.

🌱 Beyond Meat expanded the distribution of Beyond Steak Filet to Sprouts Farmers Market stores across the US, significantly increasing the reach of its plant-based whole-cut steak. Made with faba bean protein, mycelium and avocado oil, the product provides 28 g of plant protein, 3 g of fibre and 1 g of saturated fat per serving. It is another example of the category moving beyond burgers and mince towards more advanced meat alternatives.

🌱 JUST Egg entered the Swedish market, where it has been available at Coop since October. The mung bean-based egg alternative is designed to replicate the functionality of conventional eggs in breakfast dishes, cooking and other everyday applications. Nordic distributor Kale Foods is handling the launch.

🌱 HappyVore expanded its portfolio in France with four new products: a cordon bleu with tomato sauce, a pulled pork-style alternative, roast chicken-inspired strips and a spicy version of its tenders. The brand is already available in more than 10,000 retail locations across France, showing how plant-based meat is increasingly moving towards specific meal formats and familiar culinary occasions.

🌱 Fleury Michon acquired 100% of UK plant-based brand Allplants. The transaction was completed on October 20, with the French food manufacturer planning to use Allplants as a commercial platform for the further development of its plant-based portfolio in the UK. The deal is another example of established food companies using acquisitions and existing distribution networks to accelerate expansion into new markets.

🌱 Planted introduced a limited-edition planted roast in Switzerland for the festive season. The product features a juicy texture, long meat-like fibres and a rich smoky flavour. It is available in selected Coop stores and is positioned as a plant-based centrepiece for seasonal meals.

🌱 Ave-Natur introduced four flavoured oat drinks to Rossmann Poland: Chocolate, Strawberry, Date and Blueberry. The Finnish brand develops oat-based products inspired by Nordic food culture and everyday consumption occasions. The launch adds more variety to the still relatively small flavoured plant-based beverage segment in Poland.

🌱 IKEA Poland added vegan cinnamon bun-flavoured ice cream to its food offer. Priced at PLN 3 per serving, the product combines one of the flavours most strongly associated with IKEA with an affordable plant-based frozen dessert format.

🌱 Valsoia expanded its range with Coconut Barista, a coconut-based drink developed to provide a creamy texture and smooth foam. The product is designed for coffee, matcha, tea and smoothies, strengthening the brand’s presence in the growing barista segment.

🌱 Billie Green launched two new chilled products in Germany: Veganer AllesGönner and plant-based Lachsschinken-Style deli slices. The products are available at retailers including REWE and Edeka. The launch shows how plant-based meat innovation is increasingly moving into more traditional cold-cut and deli formats.

🌱 vly introduced a new Greek Style yoghurt alternative made with faba bean protein and coconut milk. The product contains only 0.6 g of sugar per 100 g, while a 400 g cup provides 18 g of protein. It is also soy-free and is now available at REWE.

🌱 One Planet Pizza expanded beyond pizza with three new frozen ready meals: Tikka Masala, Mac & Cheeze and Lasagne. The products use ingredients including tofu, lentils, beans, vegetables and dairy-free cheese. Each meal comes in a 400 g portion and is positioned as a convenient, protein-rich option that also provides fibre. The range is available in Asda freezers.

🌱 Squeaky Bean is supporting its plant-based pies in the UK with a money-back guarantee campaign. Consumers purchasing selected promotional packs can apply for a refund if they are not satisfied with the taste. The campaign reflects a broader shift in plant-based marketing towards taste, product quality and mainstream consumer confidence.

🌱 Wege Siostry launched KREMOWA 18%, a cashew-based alternative to sour cream developed for everyday cooking. The product can be used in soups, sauces, baked dishes, white pizza, cold soups and traditional Polish dishes. It contains more than 25% less saturated fat than conventional sour cream and is free from lactose, gluten and preservatives.

Which launch caught your eye? Let us know in the comments! 💚 Congratulations to all pioneers driving plant-based innovation forward! 💪 Got exciting news or a project to share? Reach out: marketing@veganstock.eu