PHILADELPHIA – Recognizing the growing consumer demand for plant-based options in addition to meat in their diets, Dietz & Watson launched its Blends line of chicken sausage products at retail. Available in three flavor profiles, the new products are a half-and-half blend of antibiotic-free chicken with a variety of vegetables and quinoa. The Blends are available in Italian Style, Tomato & Basil and Buffalo-Style Spicy Cheddar. The casing-free links contain 10 grams of protein and are gluten free with no nitrates or nitrites, according to the company.

Marketers with Dietz & Watson said the products are designed to appeal to omnivores and flexitarians as well as consumers wanting to add more vegetables to their diets.

“Our research shows that consumers would like to see more blended protein products, and their numbers will surely rise as these types of products become more readily available,” said Lauren Eni, vice president of brand strategy.

The products are being promoted with in-store merchandising and using loyalty card offers and digital coupons among other programs.

“We’re very excited about this launch and are confident of a great consumer reaction to the quality and flavor of Blends,” Eni said.