Beyond Meat’s Beyond Burger patties. Dreamstime/AFP via Getty Images Beyond Meat is rising more than 14% in midday trading Thursday, following news that it’s partnering with Taco Bell, as the latter looks to expand vegetarian offerings. Yum! Brands ’ (ticker: YUM) Taco Bell said that it is “exploring a new plant-based protein” with Beyond Meat (BYND) that will be tested “in the next year.” The move is part of its larger menu revamp, emphasizing nonmeat options. Taco Bell said that two popular vegetarian items, the Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes and the Spicy Potato Soft Taco, which fell victim to streamlining last year, will once again be available in March.