Costa Cruises has created a vegan and vegetarian menu that will be available on cruise ships.

Developed in response to the growing demand for such cuisine, the menu cuts out dairy products and eggs, instead using ingredients derived from plants that the company says will produce the same bold Italian flavours that reflect Costa’s Mediterranean roots.

The menu covers breakfast, lunch, dinner, appetizers and dessert, and includes Italian delicacies such as Venetian ‘ris e bisi’ soup (rice and peas), and a trenette with pesto as part of the Luguria regional menu.

Other culinary specials include a dish consisting of celeriac and creamy caciocavallo cheese, a vegan burger made with kidney beans, a rocket and apricot salad, and a subtle cauliflower and fig tempura with porcini mushrooms.

Antonio Brizzi, Costa’s corporate travelling chef, said: “Vegetarian dishes have always been part of Italian culinary tradition and we are delighted to introduce them as a full and separate menu on board our cruise ships. We aim to fulfil the needs of our customers and ensure they enjoy their time on our ships.”

Guests are able to request vegetarian and vegan options through the Costa call centre or travel agents.

For more information visit costacruises.co.uk/.