Lurpak, the beloved butter brand owned by Arla Foods, has finally launched its long-awaited plant-based spread. The move marks a significant step for the dairy giant, which has been relatively slow to embrace the burgeoning vegan market.
Known for its distinctive taste and quality, Lurpak spreadable has long been a favourite in British kitchens. The new dairy-free version, aptly named Lurpak Plant Based, is made with just nine simple ingredients: coconut oil, rapeseed oil, shea oil, water, culture, salt, oat, carrot concentrate, and lemon concentrate. According to the brand, the vegan spread delivers the "great taste and quality" that Lurpak is renowned for.
The release of Lurpak Plant Based comes after years of growing demand for plant-based alternatives in the UK. A growing number of people are choosing to avoid dairy products due to ethical, environmental, and health concerns. The animal welfare issues associated with dairy farming are well-documented, and the industry contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, dairy consumption has been linked to several health concerns, including prostate cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer's.
Lurpak's entry into the plant-based market is a testament to the evolving consumer landscape. The company had initially announced plans for the launch in 2023, but faced backlash from dairy farmers. While a spokesperson for Lurpak stressed that "milk would always be the heart" of the brand, they acknowledged the need to provide "options that meet their changing needs and tastes."
The new vegan spread will be available in supermarkets across the UK from 21 August, followed by its release in Denmark on 26 August. While the exact price remains unknown, Arla has stated that it will be comparable to the price of the dairy version.
Lurpak's foray into the plant-based market is likely to further fuel the ongoing debate around the future of dairy. As consumer preferences continue to shift towards more sustainable and ethical choices, it remains to be seen whether the dairy giant can maintain its dominance in a rapidly evolving market.
