One in three UK consumers now identifies as flexitarian, choosing plant-based options regularly without following a fully vegan or vegetarian diet, according to GFI Europe's latest UK data. This shift is increasingly reflected in public sector catering, where menu expectations continue to evolve.
Alongside this, 85% of parents want their children to learn more about healthy eating and nutrition, while nearly 50% support increasing plant-based options at schools as reported in a YouGov survey by ProVeg UK.
An increasing number of young people are identifying as vegetarian or vegan or are actively looking for ways to reduce meat consumption. Therefore, inclusive meals are no longer a niche feature but an operational requirement.
These changing expectations come against a challenging backdrop, with public sector caterers working within tight budgets while managing rising food inflation and labour challenges.
Workplace demographics are also shifting, according to Epassi UK’s research with one in three workers in the UK being aged 50 or over, reflecting an increasingly ageing workforce.
At the same time, kitchens must continue to meet Government School Food Standards, allergen regulations and Public Health England salt targets. Delivering balanced, compliant meals, without increasing cost or complexity, remains a significant challenge.
Central Foods has been helping UK foodservice meet these operational pressures for 30 years. Specialising in frozen food solutions, Central Foods enables busy kitchens to optimise cost control, portion management and waste reduction – all while supporting diverse and compliant menus.
Building on this expertise, Central Foods’ own brand KaterVeg! range includes Vegan Mince (1 kg), a gluten-free, vegan seasoned mince made with textured EU soya protein. Trusted by public sector caterers for over five years, it has proven its consistency across schools, healthcare and universities.
Oli Sampson, managing director of Central Foods, said: “KaterVeg! Vegan Mince can be added directly to sauces from frozen, and simmered for 10-12 minutes, where it holds shape and delivers consistent texture and flavour. It has great taste and provides reliable performance whilst helping caterers control costs.”
Designed for operational efficiency, KaterVeg! vegan mince delivers an approximate 20% increased yield compared with meat mince, with no shrinkage. Its Individually Quick Frozen (IQF) format allows caterers to use only what is needed, supporting portion control and minimising waste.
Nutritionally, the product is high in protein, low in fat and provides a source of fibre which achieves PHE 2024 salt targets. Being both vegan and gluten-free, it streamlines allergen management while enabling kitchens to cater to diverse dietary requirements.
Its value is further enhanced through its versatility. The mince can be incorporated into established favourites such as spaghetti bolognese, lasagne and shepherd's pie, as well as contemporary formats like Sloppy Joe sandwiches, stir-fries and tacos – allowing menu variety without adding complexities.
Trusted for over five years, Central Food’s vegan mince is available in 10 × 1kg packs via most wholesalers nationwide. To find out stockists in your area, contact info@centralfoods.co.uk or call 01604858522.