NEW YORK — Blue Apron is partnering with Beyond Meat, Inc. to offer plant-based burgers in its meal kits beginning in August. Recipes featuring the meatless Beyond Burger include caramelized onion and cheddar burgers with garlic green beans and jalapeño and goat cheese burgers with corn on the cob.
“We know a growing number of customers are interested in plant-based proteins, whether as an alternative to meat, a desire to explore a new ingredient, or an opportunity to make more sustainable food choices,” said Linda Kozlowski, chief executive officer of Blue Apron. “We are proud to introduce Beyond Meat products to our menu, beginning with its flagship Beyond Burger. Blue Apron recipes are designed to evoke a sense of discovery and, as a meal kit partner, we have a unique opportunity to teach our customers how to cook a wide variety of cuisines with plant-based protein.”
The recipes will feature the latest iteration of the Beyond Burger, which has a “meatier” texture and 20 grams of plant-based protein with no genetically modified ingredients, soy or gluten, according to the company.
“The Beyond Burger delivers the delicious taste, texture and juiciness of a beef burger but comes with the added nutritional and environmental benefits of consuming plant-based meat,” said Ethan Brown, founder and c.e.o. of Beyond Meat.
Blue Apron said it plans to offer other Beyond Meat products on future menus.
“We love delighting our customers with distinct flavor combinations and new ingredients to make home cooking memorable and fun,” said John Adler, vice-president of culinary at Blue Apron. “Our first two Blue Apron x Beyond Meat recipes were inspired by our most popular burgers, using the Beyond Burger as well as seasonings, sauces, and produce that put an interesting twist on this classic summer meal. We look forward to bringing home cooks more recipe creations that feature Beyond Meat’s innovative and delicious products.”
News of the partnership sent Blue Apron’s stock price soaring on July 16. After closing at $7.66 on July 15, the company’s share price was up as much as 78% on July 16 before closing at $10.38.