IKEA announces a plant-based evolution of the IKEA hot dog

“IKEA is driven by a vision to create a better everyday life for the many people. Through the food business, we can contribute to this by offering a tasty, healthier, and more sustainable food option”, says Helene von Reis, Food Manager at IKEA of Sweden.

Inspiring customers to choose plant-based options

IKEA wants to inspire even more customers to choose plant-based options by offering the hot dog at a more affordable price.

“We want to offer more plant-based alternatives with a lower climate impact. Choosing plant-based food often impacts climate footprint less than animal-based options”, says Helene von Reis.

Mimicking the snap of the iconic hot dog

During the development process, one challenge was to create a plant-based hot dog with a texture like the classic IKEA hot dog. With animal-based hot dogs, there is usually a casing around the meat, which provides a snap when you take a bite. The snap of the plant-based hotdog is meant to mimic the snap and sensory experience of biting into a regular animal-based hot dog.

“We have spent much time in the development process to give the best experience for our customers. With a great taste, texture, and a snap when you bite it, the plant-based hot dog is a perfect alternative to a traditional iconic hot dog”, says Helene von Reis.

The plant-based hot dog has a balanced taste, containing rice protein, onion, apple, salt, pepper, and smokiness to give the plant-based hot dog a characteristic sausage flavour.

The plant-based hot dog will be locally launched in Europe during the summer of 2023.