Wholesome and Hearty Foods

Wholesome & Hearty Foods, later renamed Gardenburger, was a pioneering company in the plant-based meat alternative sector. Founded in 1984 by Paul Wenner, the company is best known for creating the Gardenburger, a meatless patty composed of mushrooms, onions, grains, and cheese. The company was instrumental in bringing vegetarian options to the mainstream market, eventually expanding from food service into global retail. After going public in 1992, the company faced financial challenges and was eventually acquired by the Kellogg Company in 2007. Today, the brand is integrated into the MorningStar Farms portfolio, continuing its legacy in the health and nutrition space.