CHICAGO — Lightlife is launching a pair of plant-based chicken alternatives that are breaded and may be merchandised in the fresh meat section of grocery stores. Debuting at Sprouts Farmer Market, the new tenders and fillets are Non-GMO Project verified, vegan certified and contain no cholesterol or artificial flavors, according to the company.

Lightlife, which is owned by Greenleaf Foods, a division of Maple Leaf Foods, uses advanced high-moisture extrusion technology to create products with taste, color and pull-apart texture similar to conventional white meat chicken. The products provide 8 to 10 grams of protein per serving.

“Chicken is the most popular animal protein in the US, but until now, no one has really been able to crack the code for a plant-based option,” said Dan Curtin, president of Greenleaf Foods. “These new products deliver on Lightlife’s commitment to offer consumers the mouth-watering, plant-based variety and simplicity they deserve.”

The products join an extensive lineup of plant-based alternatives, including burgers, grounds, breakfast patties, sausages, hot dogs and more.

“Lightlife is relentless in our pursuit of plant-based perfection,” said Jitendra Sagili, chief R&D and food technology officer at Greenleaf Foods. “Breakthrough innovation in plant-based chicken that offers the texture, color and breading consumers expect is challenging, but I’m proud of how these products deliver against consumer expectations. They are truly the most chicken-like products in the plant-based category today.”