Danone is entering the fast-growing meal-replacement category with the launch of a new range of on-the-go drinks under its Alpro brand, marking a further expansion of its plant-based portfolio in Europe.

The French food and beverage giant has begun rolling out the products, branded Alpro Meal To Go, in select European markets, including Belgium and Germany, with plans to extend distribution across the region.

In a LinkedIn post, Guillaume Millet, vice-president of Danone’s plant-based business in Europe, described on-the-go meal-replacement drinks as “one of the most exciting and fastest-growing segments in Europe,” while acknowledging shortcomings in many existing products.

“Too often, people don’t finish the bottle,” Millet said. “They’re either too heavy, too sweet or simply not truly ‘meal-worthy’, meaning they don’t get all the nutrients they are being promised and end up being hungry again soon after.”

The beverages are made from a blend of soy and oats and are launching in four flavours. Each 500ml bottle delivers 20g of plant-based protein, positioning the product as a nutritionally balanced option for busy consumers seeking a convenient meal alternative. In Germany, the drinks carry a suggested retail price of €3.99 ($4.72).