McCain Foods has announced a new strategic partnership and lead investment in NUGGS, a New York based start-up which has developed a plant-based chicken nugget alternative.

The partnership combines NUGGS textured pea protein technology and research & development process with McCain’s production and commercial expertise to accelerate the brand’s growth and deliver market scale.

NUGGS research and development process is based on an iterative methodology, in which the product is constantly improved based on continuous consumer feedback.

The latest version of NUGGS plant-based chicken nugget alternative is said to not only taste great, but to also accurately simulate traditional chicken nuggets. Compared to an animal-based chicken nugget, the NUGGS product is higher in protein and lower in calories.

“NUGGS is an incredible product in itself and a very tasty chicken nugget simulation. Furthermore, the NUGGS teams approach to fast, iterative innovation, based on constant consumer feedback is a great way to create products people love”, said Mauro Pennella, Chief Growth Officer at McCain Foods.

McCain says its partnership in NUGGS is aligned to its long-term sustainability priorities and strengthens its role as a partner to food and farming technology entrepreneurs.