Rollout at 170 Donatos locations expands plant-based selections at Columbus, Ohio-based pizza chain
Donatos partnered with Field Roast to introduce a plant-based pepperoni pizza at 170 locations nationwide. The launch of the new topping in January allows guests to substitute plant-based pepperoni for the traditional version.
Plant-based pepperoni packs protein, flavor
Field Roast Plant-Based Pepperoni’s formulation combines pea protein with traditional Italian seasonings, including garlic, black pepper, fennel, anise, cayenne, and paprika. With Field Roast, the Donatos plant-based pepperoni pizza mimics the same addictive taste of traditional pepperoni.
Compared to traditional pepperoni, Field Roast Plant-Based Pepperoni contains 50 percent less sodium, fat and saturated fat. And the Field Roast product is protein packed. The mixture of pea, potato, and fava bean proteins yields the same amount of protein as traditional pepperoni.
“There is no better time for us to introduce plant-based pepperoni to our menu, particularly at the start of a new year when many people resolve to make smarter food choices,” said Carol Pasquariello, SVP of marketing for Donatos. “We have a really special way of crafting our signature pizzas, and the new Field Roast Plant-Based Pepperoni on our cauliflower crust will give even more people—from vegetarians to flexitarians—a reason to taste that magic for themselves and fall in love with us as so many others have. While this addition is a delicious alternative to our traditional pepperoni topping, it absolutely goes toe-to-toe in both flavor and substance, and we can’t wait for people to try it.”
Both Sarpino’s and Little Caesars also partnered with the Field Roast brand of plant-based pepperoni last summer.
Field Roast Plant-based Pepperoni penetrates meat-alternatives market
Originally, Greenleaf Foods unveiled Field Roast Plant-Based Pepperoni, prepared with peat protein, in 2021. Field Roast says its blend of vegetables, grains, legumes, and fresh herbs and spices produces bold flavors. According to the manufacturer, data it cited shows plant-based foods are in 53% of US households.
“Our Field Roast Plant-Based Pepperoni is a delicious, protein-packed substitute for traditional pepperoni, delivering an authentic, bold taste that continues to impress consumers who’ve had the opportunity to enjoy it,” said Dan Curtin, president of Greenleaf Foods, SPC. “We are delighted to partner with Donatos to continue to elevate the accessibility of this plant-based alternative to America’s favorite pizza topping.”
The savory topping that has landed on Donatos plant-based pepperoni pizza pairs perfectly with the chain’s golden cauliflower crust.
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