In alignment with SAS’s ongoing sustainability initiatives, the celebrated 'New Nordic by SAS' inflight menu—renowned for its commitment to locally sourced and seasonal Scandinavian ingredients—introduced a dedicated vegan meal option for a limited two-week pilot starting November 9, 2018.
"Environmental responsibility remains a cornerstone for SAS, and with the growing popularity of plant-based cuisine among travelers, it was essential to explore a vegan offering as part of our culinary program," shared Karl Sandlund, Executive Vice President Commercial, when the initiative launched.
During the trial, guests were able to savor a thoughtfully composed vegan dish presented in the signature New Nordic by SAS Cube. The menu featured thyme-infused, oven-roasted Hällestad mushrooms, complemented by a vibrant wheat salad infused with lentil and beetroot, studded with Öland black beans and fresh tarragon. The plate was garnished with slices of golden beetroot and a creamy hummus crafted from yellow Vretärt peas grown in Bjälösa, finished with a parsley vinaigrette and crispy vinegar-roasted buckwheat.
SAS’s culinary team prioritizes minimally processed, additive-free recipes, ensuring that every menu item meets rigorous quality standards. One highlight of the vegan menu is the use of hand-harvested mushrooms from Hällestad in Skåne, Sweden’s only fully organic mushroom farm. Throughout the trial, approximately two tons of assorted mushrooms—including champignon, portobello, and oyster varieties—were transformed into this exclusive meal, elegantly served in the award-winning SAS Cube.
"Our ambition is to continually redefine the travel experience for our guests by offering inventive and in-demand services," Sandlund emphasized, reflecting SAS’s reputation as an industry innovator.
For the duration of the pilot, the vegan menu was available at no additional cost to SAS Plus travelers on over 4,000 European and Scandinavian flights exceeding 80 minutes in duration.
Inside the New Nordic by SAS Philosophy
Launched to critical acclaim, the New Nordic by SAS dining program centers on seasonal menus crafted from premium, locally sourced ingredients supplied by independent Scandinavian producers. Each menu celebrates classic Nordic flavors with a contemporary twist, frequently incorporating organic produce and responsibly sourced seafood to reflect SAS’s commitment to sustainability and culinary excellence.