Chipotle’s Plant-Based Chorizo Now Available Nationwide

Chipotle’s Plant-Based Chorizo Now Available Nationwide

Chipotle chain restaurant in Middletown, DE, on July 26, 2019. (Photo by JIM WATSON / AFP) ... [+] (Photo credit should read JIM WATSON/AFP via Getty Images) Chipotle began testing a plant-based chorizo over the summer and it seems as though that test has gone swimmingly. The chain announced today the menu item is now available at participating locations nationwide for a limited time. In a release, the company called the launch "highly anticipated" following the test in Denver and Indianapolis in August. "Strong test results drove the brand to feature its second-ever vegan protein on a national stage," the company said. The first was its tofu-based sofritas, introduced in 2014. Chipotle's plant-based chorizo is certified vegan and is made with Chipotle peppers, tomato paste, crushed garlic, Spanish smoked paprika and extra virgin olive oil. The protein is derived from peas. The chain's foray into more plant-based options is no surprise. In 2020, when Chipotle began testing cauliflower rice, CMO Chris Brandt said the company strives to give customers what they're asking for, and customers are asking for plant-based meat alternatives more than ever. In fact, the global plant-based meat market is expected to expand by over 20% per year