CHICAGO/NEW YORK/SAO PAULO (May 3): There’s no other way to put it: Tyson Foods Inc’s first attempt at an alt-meat burger was a flop.

Two years ago, the biggest US meat company marketed a mix of real beef and pea protein to consumers with a “flexible diet”. But the half-vegan, half-not patty proved a tough sell. Tyson eventually discontinued it, saying only that it “constantly evaluates products.”