Cathay Pacific is introducing a pork substitute called OmniPork to its onboard offering, claiming to be the first airline to serve the plant-based alternative.
OmniPork is a vegan blend of pea protein, non-GMO (genetically modified organism) soy, shiitake mushrooms and rice that is made to look and taste like real pork, according to the airline. Unlike real pork, however, OmniPork is considered to have 0mg cholesterol, is cruelty-free, and 86% lower in saturated fat and 66% lower in calories.
For the entire month of October 2019, Business Class passengers can enjoy OmniPork bolognese with garganelli pasta on all long-haul flights departing from Hong Kong. Cathay Pacific will review passenger satisfaction and continue to experiment with OmniPork dishes.
With its commitment to creating the inflight dining experiences of the future, Cathay Pacific is collaborating with local social venture Green Monday to develop new dining options for vegetarians, flexitarians and even meat lovers.
Since October 2018, Cathay Pacific has also been serving Beyond Meat, a beef alternative marketed by Green Monday, in The Pier First Class Lounge at Hong Kong International Airport.
Among other airlines that have introduced plant-based alternatives are Air New Zealand and its meat-free Impossible Burger, and Jet2.com which recently introduced a pre-order service for vegan and gluten-free meals.
