Heinz is set to launch of a new range of bean and pulse-based meal pouches, designed to cater to the growing consumer demand for convenient, nutritious and flavourful meal options.

The new meal pouches, which are ready to eat in just 90 seconds, include three distinct flavours: Chilli Black Beanz, Curry Chickpeaz and Tomato Cannellini Beanz.

Each pouch is crafted from natural, plant-based ingredients, contains no artificial flavours and is low in sugar while being a source of protein and fibre. Additionally, each serving contributes at least one portion towards the recommended five-a-day fruit and vegetable intake.

Chilli Black Beanz: This dish features hearty black beans simmered in a smoky chipotle sauce, ideal for pairing with rice or tacos for a quick, Mexican-inspired meal.

Curry Chickpeaz: Mildly spiced chickpeas combined with spinach in a coconut curry sauce offer a flavourful option that can be served with rice or naan for an easy curry night.

Tomato Cannellini Beanz: Cannellini beans in an Italian-inspired tomato and garlic sauce, making them a good accompaniment to fresh sourdough, perfect for a modern twist on traditional beans on toast.

Heinz's new range aims to meet the needs of busy consumers who seek both convenience and taste.

"Combining our years of beans expertise with consumer cravings for adventurous recipes and world foods, our new range takes everything people love about beans – taste, convenience, comfort – and serves them up in new, delicious ways," said Alessandra de Dreuille, director of meals at Heinz.

The launch comes at a time when the global consumption of beans and pulses has surged by 30% over the past decade, driven largely by changing eating habits.

According to recent surveys, 63% of UK consumers express a desire to eat healthier, 61% are reducing their meat intake and 49% are looking to increase their protein consumption.

Despite this growing interest, UK consumption of beans remains relatively low, with the average consumer consuming only 28g per day.

Additionally, adventurous flavour trends are gaining momentum, with cuisines such as Mexican, Italian and Indian leading the way in UK kitchens. This trend presents a opportunity for brands like Heinz to innovate and capture the attention of health-conscious consumers seeking diverse meal options.

Heinz Beanz Meal pouches are now available in Sainsbury’s stores nationwide and online via Ocado, with a recommended retail price of £2.50.