Burger King adds Rebel Whopper in UK
Burger King has introduced the Rebel Whopper to its restaurants across the UK. The burger is a permanent addition to the menu at the business’ 500+ restaurants and will bolster the company’s meat-free selection; providing more choice for those looking to reduce their meat consumption.
The Rebel Whopper will be available to purchase in-store exclusively for those with the Burger King app on 6 and 7 January, before being available nationwide from 8 January.
The Rebel Whopper consists of a flame-grilled, 100% plant-based patty topped with freshly sliced tomatoes, fresh lettuce, mayonnaise, ketchup, pickles, and sliced white onions on a toasted sesame seed bun. The patty is made from sustainably-sourced soy and was developed in partnership with the Vegetarian Butcher.
Katie Evans, marketing director of Burger King said, “This really is a game changer – we wanted our first plant-based Whopper to replicate the indulgence and flame-grilled taste of the real thing as closely as possible, and we’re thrilled with the result. We’re delighted to satisfy the demand for this highly-anticipated product and finally bring the Rebel to the UK.”
Hazel Detsiny, vice president foods, Unilever UK &I said, “We believe that plant-based foods taste just as good as meat-based foods – and the Rebel Whopper is a bold and juicy product that is perfect for meat lovers who want to cut down on meat, without compromising on taste.
“At The Vegetarian Butcher we offer delicious plant-base alternatives to popular meat dishes including beef, pork, chicken and fish. Powering the Rebel Whopper is a fantastic step towards our goal to become the biggest butcher in the world.”
While the Rebel Whopper is plant-based, it’s not designated as suitable for vegetarian/vegans, as it is still cooked on the same grill as meat products. However, Burger King says this is because the new burger is aimed at flexitarians and those wanting to reduce their meat intake, rather than ethical vegetarians/vegans.
Toni Vernelli, international head of communications and marketing at Veganuary, said: “For all of the important issues that Veganuary – and most vegans – are trying to address through their food choices it makes absolutely no difference whether the plant-based patty is cooked separately or on the same grill as the meat.
“What does make a big difference to animals and the planet is when non-vegans choose a plant-based menu option, enjoy it and then order it again. And that’s exactly who Burger King’s plant-based Whopper is aimed at, flexitarians who want to reduce their meat consumption for health or environmental reasons, or are considering going vegan.”