IKEA is set to offer prospective candidates a unique new job interview experience, by serving up 3D-printed meatballs as a snack.
The furniture company said it hoped that offering the plant-based printed meatballs would attract 'creative individuals,' as it looks to hire as many as 150 new tech workers to help push the company forward.
'We're looking for down-to-earth data scientists, future architects, cyber guardians, unboxed engineers, and common sense-makers. People who want to co-create a better everyday life at home for the many with thin wallets,' IKEA employer brand leader Karen Rivoire said in a press release accompanying the announcement.
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According to Insider, vegan meatballs are nothing new for IKEA, with the company having served up plant-based versions of their iconic Swedish delicacy at most of its branches since 2020. But the job interview exclusive version are set to be the first time the meatballs have been 3D printed from a machine.
IKEA claims the new food has been designed in an effort to recreate the flavour, texture and appearance of the meatball, though it seems like they've yet to come up with a way to print the gravy that comes alongside the meal.
In a statement, it said: 'The world-famous Swedish meatballs are an iconic part of the IKEA offer. Now IKEA is exploring new technologies to make them more sustainable. In line with their commitment to offer 50% plant-based main meals in IKEA restaurants by 2025, IKEA menus already include plant balls as alternatives to traditional meatballs. The ambition is to make healthier and more sustainable eating easy, desirable and affordable.'
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The 'Taste the Future' campaign is set to see the meatballs become part of IKEA's standard job interview and application process for the new roles across the Europe.
IKEA recently announced it is making commitments to hit a number of sustainability targets over the next few years.
By 2025 the company says that alongside its 50% plant based target, 80% of its meals in its restaurant will be red meat free, and 80% of its packaged meals will be plant-based.
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Unfortunately, the company says at this point there are no plans to introduce the 3D-printed meatballs in its restaurants, so if you're keen to give them a try you'd better get sharpening up your CV.
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Topics: Food and Drink, Shopping
Hannah Smith