Nestle SA is adding its first vegan milk chocolate to its products as the world\u2019s biggest food company expands beyond meat alternatives.<\/p>\n
The Swiss food giant will start offering plant-based KitKat bars this year, called KitKat V, according to Alexander von Maillot, head of Nestle\u2019s confectionery business.<\/p>\n
The product will be for sale online and at selected stores in a handful of markets including the UK as a test run before a possible wider rollout.<\/p>\n
The bar, which uses a rice-based formula as a milk substitute, took about two years to develop. The main challenge in making alternatives to milk chocolate is ensuring it blends well with cocoa and sugar for a creamy texture.<\/p>\n
Other substitutes, such as soy or almond formulas, can create off-notes, von Maillot said.<\/p>\n
While there are quite a few small labels that make vegan milk chocolate, most of the popular brands haven\u2019t yet joined in on the trend.<\/p>\n
Lindt & Spruengli AG, better known for its Easter bunnies wrapped in golden foil, has started selling oat milk-based chocolate bars under its Hello label. Mars Inc has introduced a vegan version of its Galaxy bars in the UK Mondelez International Inc\u2019s Cadbury has also announced plans to make plant-based milk chocolate.<\/p>\n
\u201cDemand for plant-based food is growing everywhere,\u201d von Maillot said in a phone interview. \u201cKitKat was a logical choice, as it\u2019s by far the biggest brand and a global brand.\u201d<\/p>\n
Confectionery is one of Nestle\u2019s last categories to join the plant-based trend. Nestle Purina last year introduced a blended pet food line, adding insects and plant protein from fava beans and millet to the meat protein.<\/p>\n
Nestle introduced sausage substitutes last year and also makes plant-based mince and non-dairy ice cream and coffee products.<\/p>\n