A new  plant-based food company chose Phoenix as its headquarters. 

Chef Michael Salem — the former head of culinary innovation at Burger King — announced the official launch of Recreate Foods, a venture-backed, plant-based food company headquartered in Phoenix, an announcement said. 

Salem played a "pivotal role" in introducing the plant-based Impossible Whopper to the Burger King menu.

Salem is president and co-founder of the company, alongside the backing of three Arizona-based companies: Creation, founded by Bob Agahi and David Sellers; Flagstaff Ventures, led by Craig Weiss; and M Culinary, run by Brandon Maxwell and Chef Michael DeMaria.

“After working as a chef for 25 years and spearheading menu strategy and innovation for prominent restaurant chains across the country, I’ve never been so instantly amazed by the flavor of a plant-based chicken alternative," said Salem. “I was first introduced to the product during my plant-based journey from Burger King to Hart House where I helped lead the advent of Kevin Hart’s modern, quick-service restaurant in Los Angeles."

Recreate’s products are made for chefs with 100% plant-based ingredients that are non-GMO pea protein and zero cholesterol.

The company has recreated all the classic cuts of chicken – breaded and unbreaded filets, tenders, nuggets and grounds – with all the flavor and texture and none of the chicken.