IRVINE, CALIF. — Taco Bell is testing a new proprietary plant-based protein made with a blend of peas and chickpeas.
The seasoned protein, which is American Vegetarian Association (AVA) certified vegan, stars in the new Cravetarian Taco, which also features shredded cheddar cheese, lettuce, diced tomatoes and reduced-fat sour cream served in a crunchy corn shell. The taco is AVA certified vegetarian and contains 180 calories.
The Cravetarian Taco is currently available for $2.19 at one Taco Bell location in Tustin, Calif., until April 29 while supplies last. Customers may also add or swap the plant-based protein in any menu item.
In January, the Yum! Brands, Inc. subsidiary announced it would bring back potatoes — which were part of Taco Bell’s vegetarian lineup — to its menu in March after the restaurant cut them in August as part of a menu simplification effort. Taco Bell also said it was exploring a new plant-based protein with Beyond Meat, Inc. Menu items created through the collaboration will be tested next year, the companies said.
“The return of our beloved potatoes is just the first step in showing our fans the strong continued commitment to vegetarian we are making this year,” said Liz Matthews, global chief food innovation officer at Taco Bell, at the time of the announcement. “We have long been a leader in the vegetarian space, but this year, we have more meatless options in store that vegetarians, veggie-curious and even meat-eaters will love.”