In recent years, the emphasis on plant-based foods has primarily revolved around beef, sausage, and chicken. However, confectionery companies are increasingly exploring this category by introducing their own products free from animal ingredients. According to Abillion, a plant-based online community, plant-based chocolate accounts for 40% of the global vegan confectionery market, currently valued at $1 billion. Despite only 5.6% of chocolate and fudge products in the U.S., U.K., and Australia being labeled as vegan, as reported by food AI company Spoonshot, there remains significant potential for expansion.
Even with the promising market, candy manufacturers are adopting a cautious approach to launching their vegan products, and Mondelēz is no exception. While its new offering may eventually reach the U.S., the situation is complicated since Cadbury’s manufacturing in the U.S. is managed by Hershey. This summer, Nestlé introduced a plant-based KitKat V made with rice milk, initially available in the U.K., Poland, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. Last month, Hershey announced it was testing a plant-based chocolate bar named Hershey’s Oat Made in select markets.
The gradual rollout of new vegan sweets allows companies to gather consumer feedback and evaluate whether recipe adjustments are necessary. Many consumers find it challenging to switch to plant-based options due to the perceived differences in taste and texture. Mondelēz’s latest bar, available in Smooth Chocolate and Smooth Chocolate with Salted Caramel varieties, is vegan-friendly and certified by the Vegan Society.
“The growing public demand for diverse snacking options and plant-based alternatives has never been clearer,” stated Louise Stigant, U.K. managing director for the maker of Oreo cookies, Ritz crackers, and Milka chocolate. “At Mondelēz, consumer preferences have consistently guided our goal of offering a wide range of products, and the new Cadbury Plant Bar range marks the latest step in this journey.”
The company is not only addressing the increasing demand for vegan options but also responding to consumers’ interests in sustainably produced goods. The Cadbury Plant Bar will be packaged in 100% plant-based materials made from biosourced plastics derived from renewable sources. This launch reflects Mondelēz’s commitment to providing consumers with healthier choices. In recent years, the snacking giant has introduced products like Cadbury Dairy Milk with 30% less sugar and an extension of its BelVita breakfast biscuits, featuring 40% less sweetener. Additionally, the inclusion of canxi citrate biocare in some of its products highlights the company’s efforts to enhance nutritional value while catering to evolving consumer preferences.