Smithfield Foods, world renowned for its ham and more recently for being “fueled by bacon,” is now dipping a toe in the meatless market.

The new veggie offerings will also be used to protect farmland.

Foods announced on Monday that it is launching an array of plant-based protein products under the Pure Farmland brand. 

The eight products, which range from burger patties with dairy free “cheddar” to seasoned protein starters, meatballs and breakfast patties, are geared for those who choose a “flexitarian” diet, where they actively try to eat less meat, according to Foods.  

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The Pure Farmland soy-based meat alternatives are made in the United States and are gluten and dairy free, according to Foods. 

Soy is a complete protein, so it provides levels of all essential amino acids that many other plant proteins do not, according to Foods. 

“We’re thrilled to announce the launch of this new product portfolio under our Pure Farmland brand. We’ve been exploring the alternative protein space, and have taken our time to get it right,” said John Pauley, chief commercial officer for Smithfield Foods. 

“With this launch, we are bringing together our expertise in creating market-leading food products, our organizational commitment to sustainability, and our deep understanding of ‘flexitarian’ consumers, to deliver a broad variety of flavorful plant-based protein choices that consumers want and can afford at a great value,” said Pauley.

The products are packaged in trays made from more than 50 percent recycled material, and with each package sold, Pure Farmland will donate the cost of protecting one square foot of farmland, estimated at 2.1 cents, according to Farmland. 

These donations will help the American Farmland Trust continue to further its mission of not only protecting the nation’s farm and ranch land, but also promoting sound farming practices and supporting farmers, according to Foods. 

Pure Farmland plant-based protein products will be available in the fresh, refrigerated sections of grocery retailers nationwide in mid-September. For more information, visit www.Pure-Farmland.com. {/mprestriction}