HK startup brings processed meat alternative to Thailand

Every year, thousands of people in Thailand eat vegetarian food for the nine-day long Vegetarian Festival, also known as the Nine Emperor Gods Festival, where participants look to cleanse their body, mind, and spirit.

However, more people in the country are now going meatless for longer, and the demand for vegetarian and vegan food in Thailand has increased, according to a report by Siam Commercial Bank’s Economic Intelligence Center.

Photo credit: OmniFoods

Betting on the growing plant-based meat trend, Hong Kong-based foodtech firm OmniFoods has announced the launch of its processed meat alternative, OmniMeat Luncheon, in Thailand.

The move follows OmniMeat’s recent launches in Singapore, Malaysia, Japan, and Australia, according to a statement.

“Covid-19 has also increased the stakes when it comes to health and safety,” the company said in a statement. “This realization has therefore convinced many newcomers to try the ‘flexitarian’ approach – switching to a primarily plant-based diet with the occasional inclusion of meat.”

Compared to canned luncheon meat, the company said the calories and total fat content of OmniMeat Luncheon are lower by 46% and 64%, respectively. The product is a blend of non-genetically modified soy and wheat that contains dietary fiber, is high in protein, and has zero cholesterol.

OmniFoods’ parent firm Green Monday has also partnered with restaurants across Bangkok to bring OmniMeat Luncheon to their menus, offering healthier alternatives to a meat-based diet.

The company’s new product will also be available in retail stores, allowing health-conscious consumers to create their own dishes using a plant-based, cruelty-free alternative that is free from hormones, antibiotics, and flavor enhancers.