Conagra is answering the growing demand for plant-based food by expanding its Gardein line of meat-free dishes, including new items that feature pea and wheat protein. In the past, meat substitutes were mostly tailored to vegans and vegetarians. Now, however, more people are seeking a flexitarian diet due to a variety of dietary needs and lifestyle preferences, including animal welfare, health and sustainability concerns, the company explained.

"Fifty-two percent of households purchase plant-based foods, and more than 60% are trying to incorporate more plant-based foods into their diet yet have concerns that they'll sacrifice taste or texture," said Tara Rozalowsky, vice president and general manager at Conagra Brands. "Gardein's strength has always been that we offer a wide variety of delicious, plant-based meat alternatives for chicken, beef, pork, fish and seafood. Gardein offers home cooks and chefs alike a great way to make any dish plant based."

Gardein's latest innovations provide convenient, great-tasting plant-based options for any snack or meal, from breakfast through dinner, the company said. New items are available in retailers this summer and include:

Conagra said Gardein, founded in 2003, has seen tremendous growth in the past few years as consumer demand for plant-based meat alternatives has increased. The brand's compound annual growth rate has increased 34% since 2012. Gardein offers a vast menu of vegan, plant-based, meatless options across categories that are Non-GMO Project Verified.