Food News of the Week: Eataly’s Oat Spaghetti, Beyond Meat at Wendy’s, and David Beckham Takes on Athletic Greens

This week in food news, a line of gluten-free pastas—including oat spaghetti—has arrived at Italian marketplace Eataly. 

David Beckham gets further into the “athletic greens” space with the launch of IM8, a brand with nutrient-dense products designed to promote focus, energy, and overall wellness. 

And Wendy’s has partnered with Beyond Meat to add its plant-based burgers to 13 locations—but you’ll have to travel to get one. 

Read on for more. 

Restaurant news 

In restaurant news, plant-based hot dogs from Better Balance arrive at Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena, you can win a coffee date with actor Ron Perlman, and Beyond Burgers are finally at Wendy’s in Georgia (the country).

Beyond Meat

Beyond Meat burgers hit Wendy’s

Wendy’s is the latest global chain to embrace plant-based innovation, partnering with Beyond Meat to launch the Wendy’s Plant Burger across all 19 of its locations in the country of Georgia, starting November 23. 

The Wendy’s Plant Burger features Beyond Meat’s signature patty, made from pea and brown rice proteins, delivering the taste and texture of animal meat while containing zero cholesterol. Topped with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, onions, ketchup, and mayo, the burger caters to vegetarians, flexitarians, and those simply seeking flavorful alternatives.

“Wendy’s Georgia and Beyond Meat share a commitment and mutual passion for food quality and corporate social responsibility,” Samson Pkhakadze, President of Wissol Group, said in a statement . 

“By partnering with Beyond Meat, we can provide a plant-based meat offering that tastes great and can help make a positive impact,” Pkhakadze said. 

This limited-time Plant Burger capitalizes on the global plant-based meat market, set to reach $15.7 billion by 2027, and positions Wendy’s Georgia as a forward-thinking player in the growing demand for sustainable, plant-based dining options.

“The Wendy’s plant-based meat burger offers the same great taste and texture customers have come to expect, no sacrifice required,” Hameed Jagani, Vice President, Global Strategic Partnerships at Beyond Meat, said in a statement. “This partnership aligns with our mission to make plant-based eating more accessible for consumers around the world.”

This launch comes on the heels of Beyond Meat’s expansion in Europe, particularly in the German retail sector and through McDonald’s in France—which now offers meatless McPlant Nuggets at its locations across the country. 

Despite Wendy’s major advancements abroad, plant-based options at Wendy’s in the US, the chain’s home country, remain slim, with customers relegated to just fries, plain baked potatoes, vegetable burger toppings, and bare bones salads. 

PETA

Win coffee with Ron Perlman

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals’ (PETA) 2024 End of Year Auction is a star-studded showcase of animal-friendly prizes and experiences designed to raise funds for the organization’s vital work. Running until November 27, the auction’s centerpiece is a chance to share coffee with Ron Perlman in Pasadena, CA, or meet the actor virtually via Zoom. Best known for his roles in Hellboy and Sons of Anarchy, Perlman has a soft spot for animals, as seen in his recent pro-adoption campaign with PETA alongside his senior dog, Sassypants. 

The auction offers much more than a coffee date. Highlights include The Ultimate Crossroads Kitchen Experience, where foodies can dine at Tal Ronnen’s renowned Los Angeles vegan eatery and leave with signed cookbooks. Adventurous bidders can vie for international stays like a five-night retreat at Koukoumi Vegan Hotel, Greece’s only five-star, all-vegan resort, or a two-night Tuscan escape at an agrivilla on a regenerative vegan farm. 

Also up for grabs: custom vegan Puma sneakers, fur-free winter jackets, a $600 tattoo session at vegan parlor OK Tattoo, a vegan basketball signed by NBA player Jalen Smith, and apple-leather handbags by Louis Lucano.

“From a dairy-free cappuccino with an award-winning actor to a luxurious Tuscan retreat, PETA’s auction offers memorable experiences while helping animals,” PETA Senior Vice President Colleen O’Brien said in a statement.

“Every bid supports our mission and promotes a kinder, more sustainable world,” O’Brien said. 

Bidders can explore all items and experiences on PETA’s website, knowing their contributions directly fund efforts to protect animals worldwide.

Stefano’s

Dan Levy’s fave sandwich spot gets permanent home 

Back in 2021, Dan Levy—of Schitt’s Creek fame—declared the vegan chicken sandwiches at Stefano’s Sandwiches “the best I’ve ever had.” Now, this beloved pop-up has found a permanent home as Stefano’s Diner in Toronto’s trendy Trinity Bellwoods neighborhood. 

A sister restaurant to the Michelin-recommended Gia, Stefano’s brings retro-modern diner vibes to plant-based dining, offering a menu packed with creative Italian-inspired fare and comforting classics.

Owner Jenny Coburn launched Stefano’s as a pop-up during the pandemic to meet the demand for high-quality takeout fare. Thanks to its runaway success, the diner now boasts its own space, catering to a growing demographic of plant-based eaters. Gen Z and millennials, who are driving the plant-based food market to a projected $95.5 billion by 2029, make up a significant portion of Stefano’s diners. 

Stefano’s

Menu highlights include signature sandwiches such as the Stefano’s Italian Sub, featuring plant-based mortadella, ham, and pastrami, and the Extra Veg Burger, a hearty housemade patty of beans, quinoa, farro, and vegetables. Monthly specials add variety, such as the Crispy Maitake Mushroom Sandwich from former Gia chef Matthew Ravenscroft, while innovative options like Salmon Beurre Blanc—made with New School Foods’ hyper-realistic vegan seafood—showcase the diner’s commitment to cutting-edge plant-based cuisine. There’s also steak and mash featuring a hefty lion’s mane mushroom standing in for beef. 

Beyond sandwiches, Stefano’s offers small plates such as cashew-based Brie with concord grape purée and arancini, hearty mains like walnut ragu lasagna, and indulgent desserts, including a rotating selection of cakes such as lemon layer cake and chocolate-orange cake. Weekend brunch brings even more options, from vegan French toast to breakfast sandwiches and avocado toast, all in a lively diner setting.

Burgerville

Minty Fudge Nut Butter Bliss Shakes at Burgerville

Fast-casual chain Burgerville is more vegan-friendly than most and this holiday season, it’s upping the ante with a festive shake. Available from November 26 until December 30, the Minty Fudge Nut Butter Bliss Shake features Cosmic Bliss Plant-Based Ice Cream blended with Ground Up’s Minty Fudge Nut Butter, topped with coconut whipped cream, sprinkles, and crushed peppermint candy. 

The holiday menu also features returning favorites, including the Rosemary Shoestring Fries. These crispy shoestring fries are tossed in rosemary garlic-infused oil and are seasoned with Jacobsen Salt Co. Rosemary Salt.

These additions bolster existing plant-based options at Burgerville such as the Plantville Cheezeburger and dairy-free shakes and sundaes. The chain also recently launched Sweet Chili Fried Cauliflower bites, which are hand-battered with Bob’s Red Mill gluten-free flour and fried in separate fryers to limit cross-contamination.

Better Balance

Plant-based hot dogs at Los Angeles’ Crypto Arena

Plant-based company Better Balance is ramping up its US expansion with new partnerships and retail opportunities. The brand, known for its innovative Better Dog, has become the first official plant-based partner of Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena, home to the Lakers, LA Kings, and Sparks. 

Fans can enjoy the Better Dog—a gluten- and soy-free hot dog made from pea protein—at arena concessions, with sampling events and giveaways planned throughout the year.

In the fast-casual sector, Better Balance has partnered with Chef Spike Mendelsohn’s PLNT Burger to feature the Better Dog at 13 locations, starting with special events in Brookline, MA, this December. Retail availability is also expanding, with the Better Dog now on shelves at select Giant and Martin’s stores across Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia.

“Our expanded US presence reflects our commitment to making delicious and nutritious plant-based options accessible in everyday dining experiences,” Ana Guerra, Head of US for Better Balance, said in a statement. 

“As demand for Better Dog continues to grow, we’re excited to bring more consumers the plant-based quality, taste, and experience they deserve, whether they’re cheering at a game or enjoying a meal at home,” Guerra said. 

Since its initial launch in Spain in 2022, the Better Dog has quickly gained a reputation for its taste and texture, emerging as a consumer favorite. 

Grocery news

In grocery news, David Beckham is getting further into wellness with a new brand, there’s oat spaghetti (and other wholesome pastas) at Eataly, and Chris Paul and his snack line are coming to Texas. Plus, if you’re feeling festive, there’s a slew of dairy-free nogs to reach for this year. 

IM8

David Beckham gets into health and wellness, takes on Athletic Greens with IM8 

Soccer superstar David Beckham has officially entered the health and wellness arena with the launch of IM8, a new line of premium nutritional supplements in partnership with Prenetics. Designed to simplify daily nutrition and promote long-term vitality, IM8 debuted with two products: Daily Ultimate Essentials, an all-in-one powder packed with 92 nutrient-rich ingredients, and Daily Ultimate Longevity, a capsule focused on healthy aging and cellular rejuvenation. 

Both products are vegan, non-GMO, and crafted to support energy, focus, and overall wellness.  

“Health and wellness have always been a priority for me, both on and off the field,” Beckham said in a statement. “We wanted to create something that helps people feel their best every day—and with IM8, we’ve done that. I’ve personally experienced the positive impact IM8 has had on my health, energy, and focus.”  

IM8’s launch comes at a time when the global consumer health market is projected to grow to $714 billion by 2033, driven by increasing interest in functional wellness and sustainable living. The supplements are backed by rigorous clinical trials, showing early results such as a 93 percent boost in energy among participants in 30 days. Shipping to 31 countries, IM8 aims to set a new standard in plant-based daily nutrition for consumers worldwide, and takes on industry leader Athletic Greens.

Felicia’s

Oat spaghetti at Eataly

Last week, we told you about the vegan panettone at Eataly. This week, there’s a new pasta line—made from wholesome and allergen-friendly ingredients—at the Italian marketplace, as well. Felicia, an Italian brand specializing in plant-based pasta, has launched its products in North America, now available at Eataly locations nationwide and online for $5.99 per package. 

This launch is part of Felicia’s “Colorfood Revolution,” a mission to transform how people enjoy food through vibrant, nutritious, and innovative pasta options. With varieties such as Brown Rice Elbows, Spirulina Spaghetti, Red Lentil Penne, Chickpea Fusilli, and Oat Spaghetti, Felicia’s colorful offerings cater to health-conscious consumers seeking alternatives that are free from gluten and animal products. 

Malk Organics

Dairy-free nog season is here

The holiday season is in full swing with the return of two beloved plant-based eggnogs: Elmhurst’s OatNog and MALK’s Holiday Nog. 

Elmhurst’s OatNog, crafted with oat milk, buttery cashews, and holiday spices, delivers a rich and creamy experience ideal for sipping, spiking, or frothing into lattes. Available at Whole Foods, Sprouts, and other major retailers for a limited time, this seasonal favorite has become a go-to for its versatility and indulgent flavor.

Meanwhile, MALK Organics’ Holiday Nog offers a lighter, organic twist on traditional eggnog. The seasonal beverage is made with almonds, organic maple syrup, nutmeg extract, and Himalayan pink salt. With just 60 calories per serving and no gums, oils, or fillers, it’s a clean-label treat that doesn’t skimp on nostalgia. MALK’s Holiday Nog can be found at Whole Foods, Sprouts, Erewhon, and select Kroger locations.

Once Upon a Coconut

Chocolate coconut water

If you’re looking for a flavor switch-up to your favorite coconut water, Once Upon a Coconut might have the answer. Now available at nearly 200 Whole Foods Market locations across the West and Midwest, this premium coconut water brand offers three refreshing varieties to shake up your hydration game: Pure, Chocolate, and Watermelon. Made from young green coconuts and free from artificial sweeteners or preservatives, these beverages cater to health-conscious consumers and flavor adventurers alike.

“Our collaboration with Whole Foods Market highlights our shared values of quality, sustainability, and community wellness,” John Chiorando, CEO of Once Upon a Coconut said in a statement. “Whole Foods’ dedication to offering high-quality products mirrors our commitment to providing delicious and health-conscious beverages.” 

“Our shared values of environmental stewardship, responsible sourcing, and community wellness make this collaboration a perfect fit,” Chiorando said. 

Packaged in eco-friendly aluminum cans, the brand also donates 10 percent of profits to nonprofit organizations and plants a tree for every case sold.

“As more consumers seek out not only healthier options but also brands that drive positive impact, we’re thrilled to offer a drink that hydrates and supports well-being—while contributing to a greater good,” Chiorando said.

Good Eat’n

Chris Paul’s vegan snacks expand across Texas

NBA star Chris Paul is making big moves both on and off the court, bringing his plant-based snack line, Good Eat’n, to more than 250 H-E-B stores across Texas. Known for its bold flavors and colorful packaging, Good Eat’n offers vegan snacks such as Hot Hot Puffs, Nacho Cheeze Tortilla Chips, and Cookies N Creme Popcorn—all gluten-free, non-GMO, and free of artificial dyes and flavors.  

“As someone with a plant-based diet and a lover of snacks, I know how difficult it can be to find delicious and healthy alternatives to your favorite foods,” Paul said in a statement.

“I’m excited to expand the Good Eat’n snack line and make it accessible in the Healthy Living section of H-E-B stores throughout Texas,” he said. 

The timing aligns perfectly with Paul’s first season as a San Antonio Spur, creating buzz for both his on-court performance and his brand. Good Eat’n’s mission to make plant-based snacking accessible without sacrificing taste is resonating, particularly as demand for vegan snacks—a market projected to grow to nearly $78 billion by 2032—increases.

To celebrate, Good Eat’n is hosting sampling events at Spurs games and high school football games, bringing Texas fans closer to Paul’s vision of craveable, better-for-you snacking. For those outside the Lone Star State, Good Eat’n snacks are also available nationally via GoPuff.