After 136 Years, Italy’s Gruppo Tonazzo is Ditching Meat for Plant-Based

Italian legacy meat producer Gruppo Tonazzo, which has been in operation since 1888, is shutting down its meat business to focus solely on plant-based proteins through its Kioene brand. This decision is driven by the company's concern for the environment and people's health. The Tonazzo brothers, owners of the company, expressed their commitment to safeguarding the planet and promoting a conscious diet through this transition.

The company's focus on plant-based proteins dates back to the establishment of Kioene in 1988, when the brothers recognized the environmental impact of animal agriculture. With a successful lineup of plant-based products, including burgers, falafels, and cutlets, Kioene has become a major player in Italy's fast-growing plant-based market. The decision to go vegan aligns with consumer trends in Italy, where more people are looking to reduce their meat consumption and replace it with legumes and plant-based proteins.