Source: Merchant Gourmet

The range has rolled out in reusable glass jars

Merchant Gourmet has boosted its range with a trio of Plant Jars.

Billed as a “centre of plate” range for the pulses and grains stalwart, the range consists of Rich Puy Lentil Bolognese with Porcini Mushrooms, Spicy Lentil Chilli with Black Beans & Corn and Fragrant Lentil Madras Curry with Chickpeas & Squash.

They were “carefully developed to deliver all the taste, texture and satisfaction of the nation’s favourite dishes, without the meat”, said the brand, and combine lentils, pulses and vegetables with a “rich” sauce.

The range was “designed to be eaten with rice, pasta, jackets or on their own”, said the brand. They can be heated on the hob or in the microwave.

They come packed in reusable glass jars adorned with “uniquely designed” lids commissioned by London artist Rose Electra Harris. 

They will roll into Waitrose from 20 September, ahead of Sainsbury’s and Ocado from October (rsp: £3.50/330g). The bolognese, chilli and madras SKUs weigh in at 97, 149 and 112 calories per 165g serving respectively. 

Merchant Gourmet said the NPD would tap “unwavering demand from shoppers for quick and convenient meals that don’t compromise on taste” and were a source of protein and high in fibre.

The NPD marks the latest in a swathe of launches from Merchant Gourmet this year, the brand in February having announced plans to go in a “wholly plant-based direction” to tap the growing number of shoppers ditching meat.

The launch of the jars marked “an exciting new chapter for Merchant Gourmet as we expand our plant-based portfolio even further”, said MD Richard Peake.

“The new range strengthens our position within the plant-based category, showing our commitment to create simple, great-tasting products that continue to excite shoppers.”