Hospitality Business Magazine

Once again New Zealand leads the way in plant-based innovations by being the only country to have Vegan Sausage Awards, which take place annually at the end of June.

The 36 entrants from around 20 different companies were judged by vegan comedian Tom Sainsbury and Food and Beverage Industry judge Aaron Pucci, who was keen to define the best taste, consistency and appearance of the winners.

The Supreme Award went to The Vegetarian Butcher’s Breakfast Sausage. The judges said: “A very authentic sausage with great texture, appearance and flavour.”

As the delicious winners from the awards were revealed, Claire Insley from the Vegan Society said: “You can be sure when you buy these sausages that your taste buds are in for a treat! Our awards are showing Kiwis the best that vegan fare has to offer, so look out for those award logos on products and shelf labels. When sausages taste this good, you don’t need the meat and our winners are proving that.”

Supermarkets throughout New Zealand have noticed a 36% increase in plant-based product sales, across all product ranges. Milk, meat, ice creams, cheese, burgers and of course sausages, are all easily veganised and contain no cholesterol. Insley says: “As many people become concerned for their health, they are seeking to reduce their meat and dairy intake. Plant-based products are key to improving our nation’s health and producers and supermarkets alike are rising to the challenge.”

See the full list of winners below and on https://www.vegansociety.org.nz/sausage-awards-results/

Supreme Winner

The Vegetarian Butcher

Breakfast Sausage

Best Hot Dog

Joint Winners: Bean Supreme

Paprika, onion, parsley

and Howler Hotdogs

Vegan Not Dogs

Best Sausage Roll

Winner: The Good Time Pie Co.

Runner up: Couplands