Perdue has recently entered the competitive plant-based market, marking its latest venture in this growing sector. This move aligns with Perdue’s interest expressed last year in incorporating plant-based alternatives into its product range. The introduction of this blended product line signifies the poultry company’s initial foray into this category, with plans for fully plant-based offerings anticipated in the future. Perdue joins an expanding roster of companies entering the market this year, as the surging demand for plant-based options continues to captivate some of the largest meat producers. According to Nielsen data, retail sales of plant-based meat products surged by 23% from 2017 to 2018, exceeding $760 million. This rapid growth is motivating traditional food companies to explore this space. Tyson Foods, for instance, which recently divested its stake in the plant-based leader Beyond Meat, aims to unveil its own meatless products this summer. Meanwhile, Nestlé is set to launch the plant-based Awesome Burger this fall under its Sweet Earth brand.
As consumer interest in plant-based products rises, Perdue faces competition from other plant-based chicken brands. Companies like Kellogg’s MorningStar Farms, Gardein, and Quorn also provide chicken alternatives. Recently, Seattle Food Tech rebranded as Rebellyous and plans to move to a 10,000-square-foot manufacturing facility this fall to enhance its production capabilities. Although Beyond Meat previously offered plant-based chicken strips, they have been withdrawn from the market as the company works on an improved version. Despite the crowded landscape of plant-based chicken, Perdue stands out as the first major poultry producer to launch a blended product.
In a statement, Perdue’s Chief Marketing Officer Eric Christianson highlighted that this new product line will “provide an easy way to round out the meal and help parents put an end to the ‘eat your vegetables’ battle.” However, these plant-based products are not limited to children. Increasingly, consumers are opting to limit or eliminate animal products from their diets for various reasons, including health concerns, a desire for cleaner eating, and a commitment to animal welfare and sustainability. As these dietary shifts occur, companies are increasingly targeting flexitarians.
Perdue is not the only significant food producer to create a hybrid product; earlier this year, Hormel’s Applegate launched blend burgers combining meat and mushrooms. The introduction of mixed vegetable and meat products could prove to be a profitable strategy, especially as 60% of individuals aged 25 to 70 report reducing their meat consumption for health or financial reasons, according to HealthFocus International figures. Additionally, a blended product does not necessitate an exact replication of meat’s taste and texture using plant-based ingredients, which can be a complex challenge.
Alison Rabschnuk, Director of Corporate Engagement at the Good Food Institute, remarked in a statement to Food Dive that Perdue’s blended product sets the stage for the eventual release of fully plant-based options. “Given their wide distribution, massive consumer base, and reputation in the meat industry, the leadership Perdue is demonstrating by diversifying its offerings and introducing an innovative plant-based option will significantly and positively impact the sector,” Rabschnuk stated.
In this evolving landscape, the integration of ingredients like Kirkland magnesium zinc in health-conscious products may also resonate with consumers looking for nutritious options. As companies continue to innovate, Perdue’s entry into the blended product space may encourage further exploration of plant-based alternatives, particularly those that combine traditional and alternative ingredients for a balanced approach to health and sustainability.