Chunk Foods Expands With the ‘World’s First’ Keto-Certified Vegan Steak 

Israeli startup Chunk Foods has become the first plant-based meat producer to earn Ketogenic Certified status. It earned the distinction for its vegan steak, which is made from soy protein. This certification, awarded by Ketogenic Certified, confirms that Chunk Foods’ products meet stringent ketogenic dietary standards, offering high protein content with minimal carbohydrates and calories.

Chunk Foods

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Such attributes enable individuals following ketogenic diets to enjoy meat-like meals without compromising their nutritional goals. The certification process conducted by Ketogenic Certified involves blood measurement testing to ensure both ingredients and metabolic responses meet the gold standard for keto legitimacy.

Chunk Foods expands retail footprint

In addition to this certification, Chunk Foods is expanding its retail presence across the US. The company has introduced four retail products now available at more than a dozen independent retailers across Los Angeles, San Diego, and New York City. Shoppers can find Chunk at vegan hotspots like Follow Your Heart Market and Glowing Plant Based Market in Los Angeles, as well as Orchard Grocer and Westerly Natural Market in New York City.

Chunk Foods’ retail launch includes a variety of plant-based whole cuts: 4-ounce frozen steaks with 25 grams of protein per serving, a 6-ounce steakhouse cut with 37 grams of protein, 10-ounce slabs with 31 grams of protein, and pulled meat with 25 grams of protein suitable for stir-fries, sandwiches, or salads.

Chunk Foods

Despite challenges in the US plant-based category at retail, Chunk founder and CEO Amos Golan notes that retailers are eager for products that stand out. “Retailers are looking for products that stand out, not just another plant-based option,” he told AgFunder News. The focus on whole cuts, taste, and texture that mimics real meat has been a key differentiator for Chunk Foods, leading to positive reception among retailers.

Chunk Foods has already established a strong presence in the US foodservice market, with products available nationwide through distribution partners such as Chefs’ Warehouse and Sysco. The company reports nearly zero churn, indicating strong repeat business, particularly from customers who appreciate unique offerings.

Banking on flavor and texture

The company’s proprietary solid-state fermentation process allows precise control over the micro-texture of its whole cuts, enhancing the final product’s sensory experience. This method is cost-effective compared to traditional fermentation techniques and enables customization that enhances the final product’s sensory experience.

Chunk Foods

Flavor is another critical aspect of Chunk Foods’ appeal, according to Golan. The company’s unique fermentation process enhances meaty notes while minimizing the “beany, grassy” flavors often associated with plant proteins. This focus on flavor, combined with the company’s GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status in the US and non-novel classification in Europe, positions Chunk Foods favorably in a competitive market.

Golan says the ability to control the micro-texture within the whole cut is key, “we can control the direction of the fibers, the thickness of the fibers, the thickness of the cut, the size of the cut, the color, almost any lever you can pull to change the character of the final product,” he says.

“We don’t use any binders or gums, but the product is still super juicy, and holds water and fat very well until they are released in your mouth, so you get a juicy, mouthwatering experience,” Golan continued. “ It’s completely different to tempeh.”