Franklin Farms unveils chickpea tofu as allergen-free “nutrition-packed powerhouse”

02 Sep 2021 --- Franklin Farms, a division of Keystone Natural Holdings, is adding to its plant-based portfolio with a new line of chickpea tofu products. The offerings are soy-free, GMO-free, low-fat and allergen-free, giving consumers more plant-forward options to diversify their diets.

As a “nutrition-packed powerhouse,” the company forecasts chickpeas will replace cauliflower as a key food trend throughout this year.

“Chickpea Tofu offers a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth consistency like potato and offers a nutty flavor. Unlike traditional tofu, Chickpea Tofu does not require any additional pressing before cooking,” Kenny Sung, CEO of Keystone Natural Holdings, tells FoodIngredientsFirst. 

“It is similar in texture to medium-firm tofu and can be prepared by pan frying, adding to soup or dipping in a savory sauce.”

Franklin Farms chickpea tofu offerings are available in several flavor-forward options, including Original Chickpea Tofu and Peppadew Pepper Chickpea Tofu, which offers “a kick of zesty spice.”

Moreover, the products are easy to use and require no draining. The company adds that they can be cubed or sliced, so consumers can quickly and easily put them in wraps, salads or tacos. 

Chickpea Tofu is made from dehulled chickpeas and requires no draining or pressing to prepare.Plant-based options diversify
As more consumers seek ways to maintain or improve their wellness, plant-based proteins such as chickpeas, lentils, quinoa, nuts, edamame and soy products are growing in popularity, notes Keystone Natural Holdings. 

The trend toward more diverse plant-based options is highlighted in Innova Market Insights’ second top ten trend for 2021: “Plant-Forward.” 

A consumer survey conducted by the market researcher in 2020 indicated that “diet variety” was among the top four reasons for considering plant-based alternatives, in addition to health, sustainability and taste.

“With the rising number of consumers looking to increase their plant-based protein intake paired with the on-trend growth of the chickpea, these innovative products align well with market trends,” says Sung. 

“The versatility of the chickpea combined with its familiar delicious taste and health benefits are all key components driving its popularity.”

Boosting nutrition
Cindy Wong, vice president of sales at Franklin Farms, notes that the launch is particularly relevant for consumers adhering to soy-free and gluten-free diets. She describes chickpeas as the superfood that “does it all.”

“Now more than ever, consumers are seeking meals that are familiar, yet flavorful, while still providing health and nutritional benefits.”

Chickpeas are “a great addition” to any diet as they provide consumers a good source of protein, dietary fiber, magnesium, iron, folate and phosphorus, she adds. “Chickpeas are also rich in antioxidants and essential vitamins.” 

Chickpeas are a source of protein, dietary fiber, magnesium, iron, folate and phosphorus, notes Franklin Farms.In addition to their micronutrient content, she affirms that chickpeas are helpful for weight loss, as they are packed with dietary fiber delivering consumers with satisfaction and curb food cravings. 

“Other benefits include lowering cholesterol in support of heart health and the reduced risk of heart disease.”

Moreover, chickpeas contain selenium, which helps the liver to function properly, she says, allowing it to detox cancer-causing compounds from the body. “The isoflavones found in chickpeas may also reduce the risk of breast cancer.” 

One serving (3 oz) of Chickpea Tofu provides 1 g of dietary fiber, equivalent to five percent of the daily value. 

Future in chickpeas 
Sung adds that the company is looking to launch additional chickpea products in the near future. 

Franklin Farms’ offerings include veggie patties, meatless meatballs, tofu, seitan, tempeh, edamame vegan jerky, Planty Good Patties and Ground and Vegan Wraps. 

Last December, the brand partnered with plant-based meal kit service Purple Carrot to include Franklin Farms’ products in the delivery meal kit offerings.  

By Missy Green