>>consumers and buyers give their views on the latest launches


Quorn
From: Marlow Foods

Marlow Foods’ two new additions to its meat-free brand Quorn are designed to extend the brand’s appeal outside the vegetarian arena.

Price: £1.99 for a pack of two Mexican Quarter Pounders, £1.99 for a pack of two Gruyere Cheese Escalopes

Total score: 40/50

Consumer’s verdict
Louise Gasparelli, travel consultant, 35, carshalton

I eat quite a lot of veggie burgers and I would say these are bigger than the average. However, I don’t think this is noticeable when they are in the packet and I think the price of £1.99 for two burgers could put people off from buying them.

They were very tasty and much juicier than many veggie burgers, which tend to be dry. But the Mexican spicy flavour didn’t have much impact. The texture and size would make them perfect for barbecuing though.

As a vegetarian I tend to avoid products that are designed as a substitute for meat, but the Quorn fillets were quite unusual. The cheese flavour was very strong, and gave it some moisture, although it was very messy to cook and cheese went everywhere.
Score: 19/25

Buyer’s verdict
Stewart Waldie, buying controller, Nisa-today’s

Quorn products are not normally on our shopping list, but having tested these new products I was pleasantly surprised.

Some 80% of the population are seeking to eat healthier foods, which is reflected in the growth of the meat-free products sector.

The Quorn Gruyere Cheese Escalope had a good consistency and the taste was further enhanced by the cheese coming through strongly. The Chilli Quarter Pounders had a very good texture and compared favourably to standard meat burgers. This is a gently spiced burger containing both red and green peppers, which really enhance the flavour.

Having tasted these new products I would certainly have no qualms in purchasing meat-free products in the future.
Score: 21/25