The chilli bites are available now at Tesco, Waitrose and Sainsbury’s, with each 160g pack retailing at £2.50.
Cauldron is hoping that the NPD will build on the success of its ‘Middle Eastern Falafels’ SKU, which according to Nielsen data is currently the number one ranked plant-based snacking product.
“The meat free snacks sector is driving the category forward, enticing meat eaters and flexitarians into trying something new and exciting,” said Lucy Grogut, head of brands at Cauldron Foods.
“It’s the No.1 sector in meat free and has the highest recruitment, attracting the most new shoppers (according to Kantar data), showing there are plenty of opportunities for retailers to drive incremental sales.”
Made with a mix of butternut squash, chickpeas, red pepper, red onion, mozzarella and a blend of herbs and spices, the bites are a source of protein, high in fibre and low in saturated fat.
They are ready to eat cold or can be cooked in an air fryer in eight minutes, and are intended to be a versatile and adaptable option on the go or an accompaniment to a salad or wrap.
“With our delicious Cauldron Butternut & Red Chilli Bites, we’re showing shoppers that nobody else can transform plants like we can,” continued Grogut.
“We have created another new flavour combo with the perfect balance of spices and herbs that bring the best out of our incredible veggies and set tastebuds alight. The bites will add more vibrance, colour and excitement to people’s plates and we know that shoppers will love this new product.
“We’re supporting the launch with an exciting digital, PR and in store shopper marketing campaign. We’ll be grabbing shoppers’ attention on their path to purchase, driving awareness of this new addition to the chiller, as well as the Cauldron brand and wider category.”