Danish Crown launches new KOMBI Hak, beef product that cuts carbon emissions by 32%
New KOMBI Hak blend mixes minced beef with vegetables to reduce environmental impact while retaining taste and texture.
DENMARK – Danish Crown has introduced a new beef-based product aimed at reducing carbon emissions while still meeting traditional cooking expectations.
The product, called KOMBI Hak, is now available in MENY and SPAR supermarkets across Denmark.
It consists of 65% minced beef and 35% vegetables, including root vegetables and fermented onions, allowing consumers to prepare dishes like lasagna, spaghetti bolognese, and meat patties without altering cooking habits.
By partially replacing beef with vegetables, Danish Crown says the product emits 32% less CO₂ compared to regular minced beef.
The company also notes that KOMBI Hak is priced approximately one-fifth lower than standard beef mince, making it a more affordable choice for households.
The blend was developed over several years, with feedback from consumers and commercial partners playing a key role in finalizing the texture and flavor.
According to Danish Crown Beef CEO Finn Klostermann, the main challenge was maintaining the same consistency and frying performance as pure beef, which is critical for popular recipes like meat steaks.
Unlike earlier mixed products that struggled with texture, KOMBI Hak is designed to behave like traditional beef during cooking, making it easier for consumers to adopt.
Commercial kitchens see even bigger emissions cuts
In addition to retail shelves, the product is being supplied to professional kitchens such as restaurants, cafeterias, and hotels.
For these customers, a version with equal parts beef and vegetables reduces CO₂ emissions by up to 46%, according to the company.
The move comes as Danish authorities encourage reduced consumption of red meat due to health and climate concerns.
KOMBI Hak aligns with the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration’s dietary guidelines by offering a lower-beef option that still fits into everyday meals.
Fully plant-based substitutes have faced resistance from many consumers in Denmark, who prefer familiar ingredients and cooking methods.
Danish Crown’s approach aims to bridge that gap by offering a compromise that keeps meat on the plate while cutting environmental impact.
Jesper Bjerring, category director at Dagrofa—the retail group behind MENY and SPAR—says the product gives environmentally conscious shoppers a practical option without major dietary changes.
KOMBI Hak does not contain additives and is now being marketed as a flexible ingredient suitable for a range of traditional recipes.
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