QSR involvement
Sonic Drive-In announced in early March the introduction of its Sonic Signature Slingers, made from a 100 percent pure beef and mushroom blend. Depending on which option is ordered, the burger starts at under 350 calories. There’s a Classic Slinger topped with lettuce and tomato, diced onions, crinkle-cut dill pickles, mayonnaise and melted American cheese served on a brioche bun, and a Bacon Melt Slinger with bacon, melted cheese and mayonnaise served on a brioche bun.
In a statement, Scott Uehlein, vice president of product innovation and development for Sonic, calls the offering the first of its kind in fast food.
“Adding mushrooms right into the burger patty amps up the incredible flavors of the 100 percent pure beef and seasonings you get in each bite. This burger truly raises the bar for every other restaurant,” he adds.
The Mushroom Council is a partner on Sonic’s new blended burger, as well. Bart Minor, president of the Mushroom Council, which provides marketing and education on behalf of the nation’s mushroom growers and importers, says that blending mushrooms into burger patties sits atop several food trend lists this year and he’s excited for the future of the product.
Cargill, Sodexo, Sonic and many others in the industry view the blend as a multiple win.
