THE KRAKEN returns: an ultra-realistic vegan octopus alternative causes controversy
While many celebrate the innovation, others find the design "too realistic" or "creepy"
Launched in March 2024 as a limited edition, THE KRAKEN was the first plant-based octopus alternative with a deceptively real tentacle look, visible suction cups and a bite-proof texture.
Initially, the product was considered "too niche" for large-scale production. However, the first batch was sold out after 48 hours. Hundreds of requests from customers, restaurants and retailers followed. Despite its original uniqueness, the demand was too high to ignore.
THE KRAKEN was highly polarized: while many celebrated the innovation, others found the design "too realistic" or "creepy". Comments ranging from "Yuck" to "OMG, I have to try this!" show the range of reactions.
Why THE KRAKEN is important
While plant-based burgers & co. are widely available, THE KRAKEN takes a different approach. The product aims to open up new perspectives on plant-based alternatives.
At the same time, THE KRAKEN focuses on octopus as a foodstuff. Over 200,000 tons of octopus are eaten in the EU every year. But thanks to documentaries such as My Octopus Teacher, awareness of their intelligence is growing - debates about bans on octopus farming are on the rise.
What is THE KRAKEN?
THE KRAKEN is based on mushroom protein (mycoprotein), a fermented, minimally processed biomass with a complete amino acid profile and fibrous texture. The product contains omega-3 fatty acids, lots of fiber and has Nutriscore "A". The tentacle look makes it an eye-catcher.
THE KRAKEN is produced at the TASTE FACTORY in Vienna. It can be enjoyed raw or fried, especially in "pulpo-style" dishes.
Sales launch in July 2025
THE KRAKEN has been available in the Revo Foods webshop and from partners such as BILLA Online, Pflanzilla, Gurkerl.at, Alfies and Knuspr.de since July 9.
"THE KRAKEN is designed to stimulate the imagination - and make people think: Why is a vegan alternative causing a stir while real octopuses are being eaten?" - Dr. Robin Simsa, CEO Revo Foods GmbH
Note: This article has been translated using a computer system without human intervention. LUMITOS offers these automatic translations to present a wider range of current news. Since this article has been translated with automatic translation, it is possible that it contains errors in vocabulary, syntax or grammar. The original article in German can be found here.
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