Chicago’s Buona Launches Plant-Based Italian Beef at Stores Nationwide

Chicago-based seitan maker Upton’s Naturals has teamed up with Buona, the original Italian beef chain restaurant, to launch a new plant-based Italian beef product. The vegan beef, which debuted as a sandwich on Buona’s menu last year, is now available in select Whole Foods, Fresh Thyme, and Jewel-Osco stores nationwide. The Plant-Based Chicago Italian Beef & Gravy, priced at $7.49, is made with savory gravy and boasts 36g of protein per serving.

Upton’s Naturals, known for its flavored seitan products, has been serving the Chicago area for nearly two decades. In addition to its seitan, the vegan natural foods brand offers flavored jackfruit, hot dogs, soups, and mac ‘n’ cheese. The company also operates two vegan restaurants in Chicago: Liberation Kitchen, which serves gourmet vegan dishes, and The Updog Stand, a vegan hot dog stand with various toppings, hand-cut fries, and fresh cookies. For more information, visit UptonsNaturals.com.