OTTAWA, July 4 — In a sign that Korean cuisine has definitively penetrated Canada’s culinary mainstream, Subway has launched a sandwich filled with Korean-inspired barbecue pulled pork.

It’s a launch that plays into the identity of Canada’s multicultural heritage. Citing statistics from market research company Mintel, the chain points out that ethnic food is the way into a Canadian’s heart, with nearly three-quarters of consumers saying they enjoy experiencing new cultures through food.

Nearly one in four (38 percent) also said they’re interested in trying Korean fare.

"Canada’s population growth, primarily led by immigration, is affecting many aspects of Canadian culture, and our research shows that food is no exception,” said Joel Gregoire, Senior Food and Drink Analyst at Mintel in a statement.

"Consumers are willing to explore other cultures through ethnic-inspired foods and view ethnic dishes as a way to avoid mealtime boredom.”

Subway’s version of Korean barbecue, meanwhile, is made with pulled pork tossed in a marinade of soy sauce, garlic, gochujang paste (Korean hot red bean paste) and sesame oil. Recommended toppings include spinach, cucumber, green peppers and onions.

The newest product launch is meant to help Canadians "...experience new flavors that reflect the multitude of cultures our country has to offer,” said Subway Canada’s director of marketing Kathleen Bell in a statement.

It’s not the first time Subway has ridden the wave of ethnic food trends to develop new product launches.

One of its most popular launches was the Sriracha chicken and steak melt, featuring a creamy Sriracha hot sauce.

Family-style restaurant chain T.G.I. Friday’s also launched Korean steak tacos back in 2012.

Subway’s Korean BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich will be available for a limited time throughout the summer. ― AFP-Relaxnews