An iconic Taco Bell menu item is going vegan

Channel 3000 News/CNN ^ | June 7, 2023 | Jordan Valinsky

[Diana in Wisconsin]

One of Taco Bell’s most recognizable menu items is going vegan.

The chain is testing a vegan Crunchwrap, marking the first time that Taco Bell has sold a fully vegan entree.

Similar to a traditional Crunchwrap, the vegan version uses a “proprietary, boldly seasoned” plant-based protein created by the company, and is then topped with two vegan sauces: a blanco sauce (similar to sour cream) and a vegan nacho sauce. Then it’s all wrapped in a crunchy tostada shell.

However, it’s not going nationwide just yet: A total of three Taco Bell locations — one each in New York City, Hollywood and Orlando — will sell the vegan Crunchwrap beginning June 8 until supplies last. Those cities were selected because they have “notable vegan populations,” the company said. The vegan version is priced the same as a traditional wrap, which ranges from $4.99 to $6.79 depending on the city.

Although the menu item can be classified as vegan since it doesn’t contain any animal ingredients, it might not appeal to strict vegans: The company warns that “cross-contact” might occur among the foods at the restaurant’s kitchens.

The plant-based protein can’t be ordered in Taco Bell’s other menu items during the testing phase.

For the past few years, Taco Bell has been experimenting with bringing a plant-based protein food to market. It struck a deal with Beyond Meat in 2021 to use their plant-based meat, but this new menu item doesn’t use Beyond’s products. Taco Bell’s plant-based meat alternative is a “soy and pea protein blend that is boldly seasoned and inspired by classic Taco Bell flavors,” the company told CNN.

[Flaming Conservative]

LOL! If you ask me, Taco Bell has been meatless for years.

[dayglored]

That’s even better.