CHICAGO – Whole Foods Market has entered into an agreement with Maple Leaf Foods subsidiary, Greenleaf Foods SPC, the owner of Lightlife and Field Roast brands, to make the company the retailer’s exclusive un-breaded, plant-based chicken provider in its North American stores. 

Under the partnership, Whole Foods Market will be the first national retailer to offer Lightlife’s newest plant-based chicken product — an un-breaded, whole-muscle, plant-based chicken made from pea protein. 

“Whole Foods is known for its high-quality, nutritious and convenient meal options, and we are excited to partner and launch this innovation to satisfy their customers,” said Jitendra Sagili, chief research, development and food technology officer of Greenleaf Foods. “This unique, versatile design is the result of collaboration with the Whole Foods Market’s culinary team that has a taste, color and pull-apart texture that delivers on chicken experience.” 

With more than 50 plant-based items across its Lightlife and Field Roast portfolios – including plant-based burgers, sausages, pepperoni, and cheese – Greenleaf Foods says the company is well-positioned to provide Whole Foods Market customers with a variety of delicious plant-based options in the years to come. 

“Lightlife’s Plant-Based Chicken is a great product to add to our portfolio,” said Chef Amy Eubanks, principal program manager of global culinary development at Whole Foods Market.  “It’s super tasty and works great as an alternative for chicken. I’m looking forward to the bright future we have with Greenleaf Foods and the innovations they have on the horizon.”