KFC trialling first plant-based menu item in Australia: Wicked Popcorn

KFC is trialling its first ever plant-based menu item in Australia, announcing the arrival of Wicked Popcorn across 14 restaurants in the NSW South Coast from today.

Combining two KFC fan-favourites, Wicked Popcorn takes the iconic spice of Wicked Wings and packs it into the iconic perfect popcorn-sized bites.

But while the new item will be perfect for those looking to substitute their meat dishes with a meat-free alternative, strict vegans and vegetarians should note though the product is made from pea protein, it is not prepared in a vegan or vegetarian-friendly way.

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"We're always looking to treat our fans with new products, so we hope they'll enjoy this meat-free option which offers that great KFC taste our fans know and love," Sally Spriggs, CMO at KFC Australia, said.

"South Coast locals should head down to KFC for the limited-time offer and try it while they can!"

The participating KFC restaurants include Wollongong, Dapto, Fairy Meadow, Unanderra, Warrawong, Bega, Albion Park, Batemans Bay, Bomaderry, Nowra, Shellharbour, Shellharbour, Ulladulla, and Mittagong.

The new limited-time offering will also include a brand-new Lime Ranch dipping sauce, as well as the new Wicked Popcorn Bowl and Combo.

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Taking Wicked Popcorn out onto the streets already, a few lucky people were able to try the product before it officially launched, with plenty of people sharing their surprise at how much it tasted like the real thing.

"That's plant-based? You're lying!" was one reaction, you can watch in the video above.

"You could have fooled me," another admitted, while a third said: "I genuinely cannot believe it's not chicken."

Available from today (August 9) to Monday September 5, Wicked Popcorn, the Wicked Popcorn Bowl and Wicked Popcorn Combo can be purchased from participating KFC restaurants and via the KFC App.