Waitrose has introduced the first seitan burger in the UK market, as well as other vegan items, which it says offer “a solution for a complete vegan barbecue feast.”

The new Vegan Seitan Pattie, available in a pack of two (227g/ £2.99), is a mix of seitan (a protein-rich food made from wheat gluten) and mushrooms which are combined to give “an intense smoky flavour”.

The Pattie is one of several new vegan launches by Waitrose, which includes Mediterranean-style sausage whirls that are available in two flavours – Italian style, and Spanish style – in packs of three (300g/ £2.99). Also new is the Vegan Korean Inspired Vegetable Burger, which uses soya and “vibrant, punchy Korean flavours (pack of two/ 227g/ £2.75).

Other additions include the Vegan Green Pesto with Basil – (145g/ £2.75) and the vegan Tandoori Kofta Kebab (made with chickpeas, coriander and red onion).

Simona Cohen-Vida, Waitrose & Partners Vegetarian & Vegan Product Developer, noted: “We are really excited to be launching the first seitan burger. The modern barbecue is an inclusive affair with delicious products catering to all tastes and demands and we are thrilled to be able to offer a fantastic selection of vegan options.”

The retailer said searches on Waitrose.com for vegan burgers has increased by 86%, with seitan searches up by 148%. There has also been a growing trend for vegan barbecue products with searches up by 175% compared to last year.