CJ launches new vegan dumplings in UK, Australia, Singapore

South Korean food giant CJ CheilJedang Corp. has rolled out new vegan dumplings with tray packages in the UK, Australia, and Singapore. They are designed for easy microwave cooking. 

The two new products "Bibigo Japchae Steamed Dumplings" and "Bibigo Cheongyang Chili Steamed Dumplings" are primarily available through large retail channels in each country. The company explained that it enhanced the "K-flavor" by filling the dumplings with japchae, or glass noodles, a popular "K-food" menu item among global consumers, and a spicy flavor derived from South Korea's famous chili.

Unlike pouch packages, these plant-based tray dumplings are designed for more convenient microwave cooking. CJ CheilJedang plans to expand to other export markets following an assessment of local consumer responses.

CJ CheilJedang ventured into the plant-based food business at the end of 2021. The company operates under the Plantable brand in South Korea and Bibigo in the global market. CJ CheilJedang's plant-based products feature a unique textured vegetable protein (TVP) developed in-house, providing a meaty taste and a satisfying texture. The beans' natural aroma is muted with TasteNrich, a natural flavoring ingredient.

The company has been experiencing significant growth in the plant-based dumpling export market, with a threefold increase in export volume by the third quarter of this year compared to the same period last year. Its plant-based dumplings are now exported to over 30 countries, including Europe, Australia, India and Africa.

Write to Kyeong-je Han at hankyung@hankyung.com