-KH News Desk(cbedit@imaws.org)
Japanese fast-food chain Mos Burger has launched a plant-based burger using soybean substitute fish for a limited time. The Soy Sea Burger is a recreation of the company’s popular Fish Burger, made without any animal products, including dairy. Mos Food Service, which operates Mos Burger, aimed to recreate the texture and flavour of white fish using soy as the main ingredient. The batter surrounding the patty was adjusted to maintain maximum crispiness, while the tartar sauce, usually made from eggs, was created using cooking oil to replicate the smooth texture and rich flavour of the egg-based original.
The burger bun is made using soy milk cream and spinach puree to give them a sweet vegetable taste and iconic green hue. The Soy Sea Burger is priced at 490 yen ($3.80) and will be sold at all Mos Burger outlets nationwide until mid-July. The company’s previous products using meat substitutes were successful, and this is the first time the company has introduced a fish substitute item. The move was motivated by the decline in domestic fish catches due to overfishing and other factors. Mos Food Service adopted soybean substitute fish in the development of the new product to protect fishery resources.
The company claims that its new “fish” offering can respond to diversifying dietary needs, such as health consciousness and restrictions on food. The burger is a vegan replica of the Fish Burger, made without any animal products, including dairy. Mos Burger is creating its new burger in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set forward by the United Nations, specifically, in line with Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water). The SDGs aim to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas, and marine resources for sustainable development. By creating the Soy Sea Burger, Mos Burger hopes to protect and preserve marine resources and show that it’s possible to enjoy a ‘fish’ burger that doesn’t use any fish.
However, customers should be aware that the burgers will be made in the same kitchen area as food containing animal products and produced in the same factory that produces products containing animal products. Nonetheless, a representative from Mos Food Service said that they have created a product so perfect that customers would not know it was a soy substitute fish unless they were told. The company hopes that people will try the Soy Sea Burger, which is a delicious and sustainable option for those looking to enjoy a fish burger without harming marine resources.
