About Quorn
Quorn: Britain's Pioneering Meat-Free Brand Quorn has been at the forefront of the meat-free revolution since the mid-1980s, pioneering mycoprotein-based products that have become staples in vegetarian and flexitarian kitchens across the UK. From its origins in British food science to its current ownership by Monde Nissin, Quorn has helped millions reduce their meat consumption without sacrificing taste or convenience. At Grocefully, we help you compare Quorn prices across UK supermarkets, ensuring you find the best deals on these popular meat alternatives. The Scientific Origins of Quorn The Quorn story begins not with a chef or entrepreneur, but with scientists concerned about feeding a growing world population. During the 1960s, predictions suggested that by the 1980s there would be a shortage of protein-rich foods. This concern sparked research into alternative protein sources. In 1967, researchers discovered a filamentous fungus called Fusarium venenatum in a soil sample. This discovery would eventually lead to the development of mycoprotein – the protein source that gives Quorn products their characteristic texture and nutritional profile. Following this discovery, an intensive research and safety evaluation programme began. In 1985, RHM (Rank Hovis McDougall) received permission to sell mycoprotein for human consumption after a thorough ten-year evaluation programme that assessed safety and nutritional value. The Birth of Quorn The Quorn brand was first marketed in 1985 by Marlow Foods, a joint venture between RHM and Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI). The company was named after Rank Hovis McDougall's headquarters in Marlow, Buckinghamshire. ICI contributed a fermenter left vacant from their abandoned single-cell feed programme, providing the manufacturing capability to produce mycoprotein at commercial scale. This unusual beginning – a food brand emerging from a collaboration between a flour milling company and a chemicals giant – reflects the innovative nature of the venture. The initial products focused on demonstrating that mycoprotein could provide satisfying alternatives to meat, with textures and cooking properties that familiar cooking methods could accommodate. Understanding Mycoprotein Mycoprotein, the foundation of Quorn products, is produced through a fascinating fermentation process that has been refined over decades. The soil mould Fusarium venenatum strain PTA-2684 is grown in continually oxygenated water within large, sterile fermentation tanks. Glucose and fixed nitrogen feed the fungus, whilst vitamins and minerals are added to enhance the nutritional value of the final product. The resulting mycoprotein is extracted and heat-treated to reduce RNA levels. The process produces a fibrous, protein-rich material with a texture remarkably similar to meat – making it particularly suitable for products that mimic traditional meat preparations. Nutritionally, mycoprotein offers several advantages. It's naturally high in protein and fibre whilst being low in saturated fat. The fibrous structure means mycoprotein provides a satisfying texture that many other plant-based proteins struggle to match. The Ownership Journey Quorn's corporate history involves several ownership changes reflecting the product's commercial evolution and the growing interest in meat alternatives. RHM exited the business in 1990 by selling its shares to ICI. When ICI spun off its biological products divisions in 1993, Marlow Foods became part of the newly formed Zeneca group, which later merged to become AstraZeneca. In 2003, AstraZeneca sold Marlow Foods, including the Quorn business and associated trademarks and patents, to Montagu Private Equity for £72 million. The sale reflected pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca's desire to focus on its core healthcare business. Following further ownership changes through Premier Foods and later Exponent Private Equity and Intermediate Capital Group (acquired in 2011 for £205 million), Quorn attracted significant interest as the meat alternatives market expanded. In 2015, the owners put the company up for sale, attracting bidders including Danone, Kerry Group, McCain Foods, and Nomad Foods. Monde Nissin Corporation, headquartered in the Philippines, ultimately acquired the company for £550 million ($831 million) – a significant premium reflecting the growth potential seen in meat alternatives. The Quorn Product Range Four decades of development have produced an extensive Quorn range covering virtually every meat replacement application imaginable. Mince Quorn Mince provides a direct replacement for minced beef in recipes like bolognese, chilli, shepherd's pie, and tacos. The texture and cooking properties closely resemble meat mince, making recipe substitution straightforward. Mince products come in various formats including standard frozen mince, flavoured varieties, and convenient pouches. The versatility of mince makes it one of Quorn's most popular products. Pieces Quorn Pieces substitute for diced chicken or other meats in stir-fries, curries, casseroles, and similar dishes. The fibrous mycoprotein texture works particularly well in sauced dishes where it absorbs flavours whilst maintaining its structure. Various piece formats include plain, flavoured, and pre-seasoned options ready for specific cuisines. Sausages Quorn Sausages have become a vegetarian staple, providing the full English breakfast experience without meat. Various flavours and styles cater to different preferences, from traditional recipes to flavoured variants. The sausage format demonstrates Quorn's ability to replicate specific meat products rather than just provide generic protein. Burgers Quorn Burgers offer barbecue and quick meal options for vegetarians and flexitarians. Various burger styles range from basic patties to premium offerings with complex flavour profiles. The burger category has seen significant innovation as competition in the meat-free burger market has intensified. Deli Slices For sandwiches and cold applications, Quorn Deli Slices provide alternatives to ham, chicken, and other sliced meats. These products suit lunchbox preparation and quick meal assembly. Ready Meals Quorn Ready Meals offer complete meal solutions for maximum convenience. These products combine Quorn proteins with accompaniments for heat-and-eat simplicity. Breaded and Coated Products Chicken-style nuggets, crispy fillets, and other breaded products cater to families and those seeking comfort food options. These products particularly appeal to households introducing children to meat-free eating. The UK Market Position The United Kingdom represents Quorn's core market, accounting for approximately 78.6% of sales in Monde Nissin's meat alternatives business according to their 2024 annual report. This domestic dominance reflects both the brand's British origins and the UK's relatively developed vegetarian and flexitarian culture. The remaining sales divide between the United States (5.6%), the Republic of Ireland, mainland Europe, Southeast Asia, and Australasia – demonstrating genuine global reach despite UK concentration. Recent market conditions have proven challenging for the entire meat alternatives category. The initial surge of interest in meat-free products has moderated, with the UK alternative meat category declining 8.9% in Q1 2025. Quorn's sales decline of 5.8% actually outperformed this broader category trend. These challenges reflect several factors including economic pressures affecting premium-priced products, competition from other meat-free brands, and some consumer fatigue with heavily processed alternatives. Who Eats Quorn? Quorn serves several distinct consumer groups, each with different motivations. Vegetarians and vegans form the traditional core market. For those avoiding meat entirely, Quorn provides protein variety and familiar meal formats that ease social eating situations. Flexitarians – those reducing but not eliminating meat – represent a growing segment. These consumers might use Quorn for some meals whilst continuing to eat meat at others, often motivated by health, environmental, or economic concerns. Health-conscious consumers appreciate Quorn's nutritional profile – high protein, high fibre, low saturated fat – regardless of broader dietary philosophy. Environmental advocates choose Quorn for its lower carbon footprint compared to meat production. Mycoprotein production requires significantly less land and water than livestock farming. Families seeking variety incorporate Quorn into meal rotation, sometimes without formal meat-reduction goals. Cooking with Quorn Getting good results from Quorn products involves understanding their characteristics and appropriate cooking techniques. Most Quorn products benefit from browning or crisping, which develops flavour and texture. This is particularly true for mince and pieces, which can seem bland if simply heated through. Quorn absorbs flavours well, making it excellent in sauced dishes, curries, and stews. The mycoprotein texture holds up to long cooking without disintegrating, unlike some plant-based alternatives. For best results with frozen products, cooking from frozen often produces better texture than thawing first. Individual product packaging provides specific guidance. Seasoning generously helps Quorn products match the fuller flavour profiles that meat naturally provides. Don't be shy with herbs, spices, and seasonings. Nutritional Benefits Quorn products offer several nutritional advantages that appeal to health-conscious consumers. High protein content supports muscle maintenance and satiety. Mycoprotein provides complete protein containing all essential amino acids. High fibre content (unusual for protein-rich foods) supports digestive health and contributes to feeling full. Low saturated fat content supports cardiovascular health, particularly when replacing higher-fat meat products. No cholesterol in mycoprotein itself (though some products contain eggs, which do contain cholesterol). Comparing Quorn Prices Across UK Supermarkets One of the key benefits of shopping for Quorn products through Grocefully is the ability to compare prices across UK supermarkets. As a premium meat-free brand, Quorn products command higher prices than basic protein sources, making price comparison particularly valuable. Major supermarkets including Tesco, Sainsbury's, Asda, Morrisons, and Waitrose all stock comprehensive Quorn ranges. Promotional offers can provide significant savings, particularly on multibuys and larger packs. Given that meat-reducers might purchase Quorn products weekly or more frequently, identifying consistent value matters. Price comparison helps stretch food budgets whilst maintaining dietary choices. The Future of Quorn Despite current market challenges, Quorn continues developing its business and products. Marlow Ingredients, a new division, is being established to sell mycoprotein to other food manufacturers. This business-to-business expansion could diversify revenue beyond consumer products. Product innovation continues, with new formats and flavours responding to evolving consumer preferences. International expansion, particularly in the United States and Asia, offers growth potential beyond the mature UK market. Recent investment of £18 million demonstrates ongoing commitment to the brand's future, supporting debt reduction and revitalisation efforts. Why Choose Quorn? Several factors distinguish Quorn from other meat alternatives. Decades of heritage mean Quorn products have been refined through extensive consumer feedback and food science development. The brand isn't a recent startup but an established player with proven products. Mycoprotein's unique texture provides a meat-like eating experience that many plant-based proteins can't match. For those missing meat's texture, Quorn offers closer approximation than many alternatives. UK production and heritage resonates with consumers supporting British food manufacturing. Range comprehensiveness means Quorn offers products for virtually every meat replacement occasion within a single trusted brand. Conclusion Quorn represents nearly four decades of British innovation in meat alternatives. From scientific discovery through extensive product development to becoming a household name, the brand has pioneered meat-free eating for millions. Whether you're vegetarian, flexitarian, health-focused, or simply curious about meat alternatives, Quorn offers accessible products that make reducing meat consumption practical and satisfying. By comparing Quorn prices across UK supermarkets through Grocefully, you can find the best deals on these popular products. Explore Quorn products on Grocefully today and discover how smart shopping can help you eat more sustainably without paying more than necessary.