Nestlé announces vegan KitKats

Nestlé has announced the launch of a vegan KitKat, set to hit the UK stores later this year.

Developed by chocolatiers and food scientists in Nestlé’s research and development centre in York, KitKat V features crispy wafer fingers covered with smooth chocolate blended with plant-based ingredients.

“Taste was a priority when developing the plant-based chocolate for our new vegan KitKat. We used our expertise in ingredients, together with a test and learn approach, to create a delicious vegan choice for KitKat fans,” commented Louise Barrett, head of the Nestlé Confectionery Product Technology Centre in York.

KitKat V is certified vegan by the Vegan Society, and follows the vegan friendly Fruit Pastilles launched last year.

“We have seen an incredible response to our vegan friendly Fruit Pastilles since their launch last year, so we know how much people want to enjoy alternative versions of their favourite treats,” Alex Gonnella, marketing director for Nestlé Confectionery said.

“The most common request we see on social media is for a vegan KitKat, so we’re delighted to be able to make that wish come true. I can’t wait for more people to try it; we think it tastes amazing!”

Nestle has been boosting its plant-based offerings, with options across its wide range of food and beverages. Aside from plant-based food, Nestlé has also launched dairy-free coffee mixes and last year introduced Carnation Vegan condensed milk.

“There is a quiet food revolution underway that is changing how people eat. We want to be at the forefront of that, championing the discovery of plant-based food and beverages,” Gonnella added.

Like the rest of the KitKat range, KitKat V is made from 100% sustainable cocoa, sourced through the Nestlé Cocoa Plan in conjunction with the Rainforest Alliance.