Costa, the nation’s favourite coffee shop, will introduce a new Vegan Fruit Crumble to its 2016 menu, making it the first coffee shop chain in the UK to launch a vegan product registered with The Vegan Society’s Vegan Trademark.
Demand for Free-From choices
It is estimated that there are at least 300,000 vegans in the UK – a number growing rapidly – and there has been a huge increase in demand among UK consumers for Free-From choices when eating out. Costa’s inspiration for the new product came from listening to customer and social media feedback, an important and regular part of the new product development process.
Dairy-, gluten-, and wheat-free Fruit Crumble
The new dairy-, gluten-, and wheat-free Fruit Crumble consists of a cinnamon spiced biscuit base with a fruity plum, cranberry and sultana filling, finished with a crumble topping.
The Fruit Crumble is made in the UK by family run bakery, Bells of Lazonby, based in the Lake District in Cumbria. Working closely with Costa and The Vegan Society the bakery has ensured full compliance with The Vegan Society’s criteria, allowing the Vegan Trademark to be displayed on the packaging.
Jane Treasure, Costa’s Head of Food and Beverage Development in the UK commented:
“We’re dedicated to offering all our customers a variety of products and I am really pleased to add a vegan option to provide more choice for those with dietary requirements.
”We’re delighted that this sweet treat will be featured alongside our other Celiac Society approved menu options including our Chicken with Coconut and Lime Dressing Wrap and our Gluten Free Chocolate Brownie.”
Jasmijn de Boo, CEO of The Vegan Society’s UK Brand Development Manager added, “It is fantastic that another major high street retailer has listened to its customers and put a delicious vegan option on the menu. More people than ever went vegan last year and with even more expected this year, Costa’s vegan addition shows they are being conscientious towards customers’ compassionate choices.”
Costa’s Vegan Fruit Crumble will be available in Costa stores nationwide from Thursday 7th January for £1.70.