Spanish alternative meat company Heura has introduced a new plant-based frankfurter made from soy protein, extra virgin olive oil, and spices, containing 18 times fewer saturated fats, no cholesterol, and nearly twice the protein of conventional animal-based versions.
Reinventing the frankfurter
Developed using proprietary technology, the product features a short ingredient list of only eight items, with no additives. A recent analysis by food technologist Mario Sánchez confirmed the product’s nutritional advantages, including a 93% reduction in saturated fats, a protein content of 19g per 100g, and the lowest salt level among similar products on the market.
Sanchez stated, “Among the brands I analyzed, Heura is the one that stands out the most, not only because of its nutritional profile but also because of the type of ingredients. It’s a short, clean, and very transparent formulation, proving that you can enjoy these kinds of products without sacrificing health.”
Heura’s new frankfurter provides 60% fewer calories compared to traditional options, with no cholesterol, compared to the 65mg per 100g found in standard frankfurters.
A bold challenge to meat producers
In addition to the product launch, Heura has made its recipe available to major meat producers in Spain, including brands like Oscar Mayer, Argal, and Elpozo. Marc Coloma, co-founder and CEO of Heura, reached out to these companies in an open letter offering the recipe and urging them to move away from traditional meat formulas.
“We know that making a delicious and healthy frankfurter sounds impossible. That’s why we’ve done the hard part. And now we want to give you the recipe for free. We only ask one thing in return: that you stop producing the ones from the past,” Coloma wrote.
“There’s no longer any reason to continue consuming products made with the waste from the industry”
As the third-largest producer of sausages in Europe, Spain has long been associated with traditional meat production, but Heura’s launch suggests a shift in the country’s role within the food sector. “The industrial strength and scientific talent of Spain are ready to lead the transformation towards high-value, positive-impact alternatives. If we truly prioritize health, the planet, and other animals, there’s no longer any reason to continue consuming products made with the waste from the industry,” said Coloma.
The frankfurters, sold in packs of four (170g) for €3.99, will be available in major Spanish supermarkets, including Alcampo, Bon Preu-Esclat, Eroski, Condis, and Carrefour.
