San Francisco 49ers tackle plant-based food in an innovative way

While scrumptious football food can take a fan’s eyes away from the action on the gridiron, the San Francisco 49ers are taking that food conversation in a different direction. Like that perfectly thrown slant pass, Levi’s Stadium has is serving up a plant-based menu that will have everyone cheering for flexitarian eating. Isn’t it time to sack that perception of plant-based food?

In a recent announcement, the San Francisco 49ers and Levi’s Stadium shared that Incogmeato and MorningStar Farms have become the “first-ever official plant-based protein of the NFL franchise.” As part of this partnership, new menu items will be available throughout both the member-inclusive menu and at the Incogmeato kiosk in the Zenni Zone on the upper concourse.

As Heidi Ray, Marketing Director, Plant-Based Protein Category of Kellogg Company, said, “We are proud to be the official plant-based protein of the San Francisco 49ers and Levi’s Stadium. What you eat on game day is almost as important as the action on the field, so that’s why our partnership is key to delivering what flexitarian 49ers fans want: all of the flavor with none of the meat.”

While fans will get a taste of these delicious food options at Levi’s Stadium, the partnership with Incogmeato and MorningStar Farms gives everyone an opportunity to recreate those tasty bites at home. Although it is unclear if the San Francisco 49ers will be sharing all of the recipes, any foodie can draw inspiration from these bites. In many ways, it brings a taste of the tailgate to the couch. After all, football is calling and fans are ready to answer.

What other ways are the San Francisco 49ers tackling hunger this season?

As part of its partnership with Incogmeato and MorningStar Farms, there is a commitment to help Feeding America. With food insecurity continuing to plague the nation, providing meals for those in need is vital to strengthening local communities.

Kevin Hilton, 49ers Vice President of Corporate Partnerships, said “We are always looking for ways to bring our fans, our community and a premium food experience, together. That’s why, partnering with Incogmeato and MorningStar Farms is a touchdown for not only our fans craving a delicious alternative to meat, but for those facing food insecurities in our region.”

According to the 49ers, “for every field goal the 49ers score, the brands will donate 30,000 Incogmeato Chik’n Tenders — up to one million tenders — to Feeding America food banks in the Bay Area.” Even though fans might want to see more touchdowns than field goals, those three points do a lot more than increase the number on the scoreboard.

What do you think of this food and sports partnership? Do you think that plant-based food will take over stadium menus?