THIS Launches Hyper-Realistic Plant-Based Chicken Thighs With Seaweed “Skin”

UK plant-based meat brand THIS has launched what are claimed to be the first plant-based chicken thighs to be available in supermarkets across the country.

Described as “hyper-realistic”, the plant-based thighs combine three patent-pending technologies to replicate the complex three-dimensional structure of meat. Extrusion technology is used to give soy and fava bean protein a fibrous meat-like texture, olive oil-based fat provides juiciness, and a seaweed layer replicates the structure and texture of chicken skin.

The plant-based chicken thighs are sold in packs of four and can be pan-fried or oven-cooked. They are high in protein and fibre, and can be used in dishes such as traybakes, burgers, and curries.

THIS has already launched three other plant-based chicken products this year — shawarma, wings, and breasts. In 2023, the company introduced plant-based roast chicken with stuffing, which became the best-performing line in the entire category that year. The product had a value rate of sale of 75.1, compared to 45.1 for the next best competitor.

In recent weeks, THIS has announced a collaboration with Pieminister to launch a pie made with THIS Isn’t Pork sausages. The company also appointed new CEO Mark Cuddigan in January, as founders Andy Shovel and Pete Sharman stepped down as co-CEOs.

The new product will launch at Tesco stores UK-wide from May 13.