Franklin Farms, a division of Keystone Natural Holdings, has entered a new partnership with Purple Carrot, a 100 percent plant-based meal kit company. 

“Franklin Farms Organic Extra Firm Tofu will be included in Purple Carrot’s Plant-based Meal Kit offerings and incorporated in various meal applications,” Cindy Wong, vice president of sales at Franklin Farms, tells FoodIngredientsFirst.

“The collaboration will allow consumers to enjoy plant-based meals made with Franklin Farms’ tofu at home.”

New Omnichannel Eating
The collaboration comes as consumers are finding new avenues to order their food, as highlighted in Innova Market Insights’ fourth Top Ten Trend, “New Omnichannel Eating.” 

“Customers are finding more ways to prepare and enjoy food from the comfort of their homes. Our partnership with Purple Carrot aligns with current trends as online grocery delivery options grow,” explains Wong. 

“Purple Carrot offerings are a fresh and convenient way for consumers to create and enjoy flavorful plant-based foods. Our extra-firm tofu is a popular item with consumers and is now a key ingredient in these popular home delivery meal kits”

“Every Purple Carrot meal kit includes plant-based ingredients along with a variety of recipes and cooking ideas to inspire consumers,” says Andrea Norby, Purple Carrot’s Head of Culinary.

Moving Plant-Forward
The company also notes that amid this global pandemic, consumers’ shopping behavior is shifting toward more health-conscious solutions as they seek out plant-based nutrition, such as tofu. 

“Incorporating tofu is helpful for maintaining a balanced diet as tofu is a good source of plant-protein, contains no cholesterol and is low in fat. In addition, tofu is a complete protein source, which contains all nine essential amino acids,” adds the spokesperson. 

Factors such as meat shortages in some areas, environmental concerns, and a desire to eat healthier diets are among the top reasons consumers cited for their increased interest in plant-based foods, notes Franklin Farms. 

Franklin Farms product offerings include organic and conventional tofu and seasoned tofu bites, veggie patties, meatless meatballs, seitan, tempeh, edamame and vegan jerky.

“Franklin Farms is always looking into new ingredients and developing new products while maintaining an authentic and approachable brand,” affirms Wong.

“In 2021, we’ll be launching more innovative plant-based product lines.”