Margaret Malochleb

Margaret Malochleb

CoffeeWater cans

S.Pellegrino Essenza coffee-inspired sparkling waters contain 30 mg of caffeine and are available in three indulgent flavor options.

Chicken strips package

Plant-based versions of pot pie and quiche are vegan and gluten-free, offering delicious alternatives for those with special dietary needs.

Chipotle pie

Sweet Earth’s plant-based Mindful Chik’n Strips come in three versions to offer boldly flavored, ready-to-eat options at meals or snack occasions.


Coffee-inspired sparkling water

S.Pellegrino recently debuted a new line of coffee-inspired sparkling waters, S.Pellegrino Essenza. Taking a cue from traditional Italian coffee bars, the waters are gently caffeinated and offer a sophisticated accompaniment to a mid-morning break or afternoon snack.

The new line contains 30 mg of caffeine and is available in three flavor options: Exotic Vanilla & Coffee, which combines espresso coffee flavors with sweet, velvety vanilla notes that pair well with fresh berries and nuts; Delicious Cocoa & Coffee, a rich, smooth cocoa flavor that works with biscotti, pastries, croissants, or muffins; and Smooth Caramel & Coffee, a classic flavor combination that goes well with white cheddar cheese and apple or pear slices.

Bottled at the source in Italy, S.Pellegrino Essenza coffee-flavored sparkling waters can be found at retailers nationwide for a suggested retail price of $5.99 for an eight-can fridge pack.

Savory plant-based pies

Raised Gluten Free, a women-owned bakery in Northern California, has introduced a lineup of savory pies that are 100% vegan and gluten-free. The artisan entrées, created to meet the needs of families with food restrictions, are also free of nuts, and peanuts, and are Non-GMO Project Verified.

“We are lovers of all kinds of pie, from sweet dessert and fresh fruit pies to those that can serve as a satisfying meal. They truly are the ultimate comfort food,” said Rosa Dixon, co-founder of Raised Gluten Free, in a company statement. “That’s why when it came [time] to expand our lineup of offerings, we were inspired to create a traditional pot pie and quiche that anyone could enjoy, regardless of their special dietary needs.”

Ready to heat and serve, the pies are available in two versions: Vegan Quiche, which is crafted with organic tofu and savory spinach, then baked in a light pastry crust; and Vegetable Pot Pie, a hearty mix of seasoned potatoes, carrots, green beans, peas, and onions.

Raised Gluten Free’s savory pies can be found at national retailers and natural food stores for a suggested retail price of $8.99 for a 6-inch pie.

Globally inspired vegan strips

Sweet Earth Foods has expanded its plant-based Mindful Chik’n Strips line with the release of three new versions. The ready-to-eat products feature flavorful, globally inspired marinades that offer a quick protein option with a lower environmental impact than their animal-based equivalents.

The vegan strips are made with nutrient-dense ingredients and provide at least 13 grams of protein and 4 grams of dietary fiber per serving. Perfect for an afternoon snack or adding a boost to sandwiches, salads, sliders, and recipes, the strips are available in three versions: Shredded Seasoned Chik’n, tossed in a classic carnitas-style marinade; Seasoned Chipotle Chik’n Strips, tossed in a saucy chipotle marinade; and Shredded Korean Style BBQ, featuring the bold spiciness of authentic Korean barbecue.

Sweet Earth Mindful Chik’n products can be found at retailers nationwide for a suggested retail price of $7.99.

To learn more about the product development process for Mindful Chik’n, turn to page 21 for an interview with Ryan Riddle, senior product development specialist - Plant-Based Meal Solutions at Nestlé.

About the Author

Margaret Malochleb, Associate Editor, [email protected]
Margaret Malochleb