The World of Hospitality Issue 55 2023 | Page 92

The UK ’ s first premium plant-based deli filling range

- ZESS / SYSCO GB -
Answering the growing demand for premium plantbased options , Zess has collaborated with Sysco GB to unveil Zess Explore , the UK ’ s pioneering range of plant-based deli fillers , handcrafted at Fresh Direct ’ s specialist production unit Fresh Kitchen .
Zess , a UK-based start-up that specialises in helping people make smarter food choices , has joined forces with Sysco GB to create and launch Zess Explore , the UK ’ s first range of plant-based deli fillers .
The new products , which are being hand-prepared at Fresh Kitchen which is part of Fresh Direct ’ s “ Food Village ” in Bicester , were created in response to the lack of inspiring , ready-to-serve , plantbased fillings that are currently available , and are healthier and more sustainable than a typical meat-based option .
There are three flavoursome products in the range Roasted Sicilian Caponata , Chipotle & Corn Veggie Barbacoa and Sweet Potato & Butternut Dhansak , which are designed to be used across a range of popular choices including sandwiches , jacket potatoes , pizza topping , tacos , salads , wraps and more ...
Hiren Umradia , CEO at Zess , said : “ Zess was born out of a desire to revolutionise food choices for health and the environment . We observed a gap in the market for exciting , ready-to-serve plant-based deli fillings , as there are very few options available without the hassle of creating something yourself . In busy kitchens , there simply isn ’ t time to develop the exciting plant-based products that people want . This often means that those wanting a plantbased option face boring choices that simply don ’ t inspire them . With Fresh Kitchen , we ’ re introducing a game-changing combination of exciting flavours , hand-produced to high standards that are not just healthy , but tantalisingly delicious , through the nation ’ s largest wholesaler , Brakes .”
Adam Swan , Strategy and Commercial Director at Fresh Direct , added : “ Fresh Kitchen creates fantastic recipes that save time and resource in busy kitchens , so when Hiren came to us with his vision for plant-based deli fillers we were delighted to produce and distribute them . We believe we ’ ve created a recipe which isn ’ t just a great plant-based product , it ’ s a product that will proudly stand up to any deli-style filler , catering to vegans , vegetarians and flexitarians .”
The ready-to-serve deli fillers bring together a range of premium flavours that have an authentic taste .
• Italian - Roasted Sicilian Caponata , which delivers authentic Italian veggie goodness , with a winning combination of slow-roasted tomatoes , fire-roasted aubergine , capers , basil and black olives .
• Mexican - Chipotle & Corn Veggie Barbacoa is made with genuine Mexican adobo , chipotle chilli peppers , oregano and organic plant-powered protein , giving it a vibrant and smoky , taste profile .
• Indian - Sweet Potato & Butternut Dhansak , combines authentic spice blends , green chilli and organic plant-powered protein , creating a deep , warm , and fragrant taste profile with creamy and cleansing citrus finish .
The revolutionary product range is launching this September in Brakes , with an enticing introductory promotional price of £ 9.99 for a 1kg tub , before trade discounts .
With Zess ’ s dedication to improving food choices and Sysco GB ’ s extensive distribution network , this partnership marks a transformative step in making plant-based foods both delectable and accessible .
www . sysco . com / www . zess . co
- 92 -