Schouten Europe launches plant-based sausage with novel fat replacer

Schouten Europe, the Dutch family-owned company that was the first in the Netherlands to develop meat substitutes from plant-based proteins, has unveiled its latest innovation: a plant-based sausage featuring a novel fat replacer designed to deliver what the company calls “unique juiciness.”

The product will be available this month across retail, foodservice, and industry channels. It will also be showcased at the upcoming Anuga trade fair in Cologne, where visitors will have the chance to taste the new sausage.

The launch reflects Schouten’s ongoing focus on improving its meat analogues, building on decades of experience in plant-based development. “The meat alternatives category is still relatively young, and we constantly explore ways to create better and healthier products,” commented R&D Manager Ruben Molenaar. “With this new sausage, we have achieved a major improvement compared to its predecessor in our range.”

By integrating an innovative fat replacer into the recipe, the company says it has managed to replicate the juiciness and mouthfeel typically associated with animal-based sausages, while staying true to its mission of developing sustainable, plant-based foods.

The sausage also incorporates a plant-based casing, offering consumers a more traditional eating experience. “This delivers an authentic sausage experience,” Molenaar explained. “Traditional sausages use an animal intestine as a casing, but we can now offer this in a fully plant-based way.”

Together, the fat replacer and casing give the new product both functional and sensory improvements, narrowing the gap between conventional and plant-based sausages.

Founded in 1990, Schouten Europe was the first Dutch company to develop meat substitutes from plant-based proteins. Over the past 35 years, it has built one of the world’s most extensive portfolios of plant-based foods, supplying private-label products to more than 50 countries.

The company works closely with retail and foodservice partners to develop tailored solutions and continues to expand its range to meet growing global demand for meat alternatives.

By combining technological innovation with its long track record in the sector, Schouten positions itself as a trusted partner for businesses seeking high-quality plant-based products.

The launch comes at a time when consumer demand for plant-based meat continues to evolve. Shoppers increasingly expect products to replicate the sensory experience of animal-based foods, including taste, texture, and juiciness, while aligning with sustainability and ethical concerns.

By focusing on fat replacement and plant-based casing, Schouten is addressing two of the most persistent challenges in the category: replicating the richness of animal fat and recreating the authentic look and bite of traditional sausages.

For retailers and foodservice operators, the innovation offers a way to expand plant-based options while meeting consumer expectations for indulgence and quality.

As Schouten brings its new sausage to market, the company continues to explore new applications for plant-based proteins and fat replacers across its portfolio.

By pairing its heritage as a pioneer with a focus on technological advancement, Schouten aims to strengthen its position as one of Europe’s most established and forward-looking suppliers in the plant-based sector.

“With this launch, we’re not only offering a more authentic and satisfying sausage,” Molenaar said. “We’re showing how innovation in fat replacement and casings can bring plant-based products ever closer to what consumers already know and love.”