Ofi, a producer of various ingredients including coffee, edible nuts, and dairy, conducted a survey that gathered insights from over 1,500 participants regarding their use of plant-based dairy alternatives. The findings reveal a growing interest in this market, with 63% of respondents indicating they plan to purchase more plant-based products in the next two years. Sonali Dalvi, Ofi’s vice president of innovation, noted that the results highlight crucial areas for plant-based dairy producers to focus on, particularly in terms of flavors and health benefits. “This is a call to action for the food and beverage industry. A fresh, innovative approach to flavor creation, color, and texture development is essential to captivate consumers,” Dalvi stated.
While 82% of participants reported using animal-free products at least once a month, 7% admitted to reverting to dairy after not enjoying their initial experience with plant-based alternatives. Given that consumers prioritize nutritious and functional aspects when selecting a dairy substitute, Dalvi emphasized the potential for formulations incorporating ingredients like cocoa, nuts, and spices that maintain clean-label standards. The survey also revealed that affordability and accessibility pose challenges for some consumers, as 57% of those avoiding plant-based dairy cited pricing as a major concern.
As Generation Z increasingly turns away from dairy milk, leading plant-based alternatives are experiencing significant sales growth. Major consumer packaged goods companies such as Nestlé, Chobani, and Danone have recently expanded their offerings in the dairy alternative sector. Oat milk, a prominent category, is projected to achieve a compound annual growth rate of 15.4% through 2028, according to Grand View Research. The rise in consumer acceptance of plant-based milks has also garnered attention from federal regulators; in February, the FDA announced that plant-based milk products could be labeled as “milk,” advising manufacturers to include nutritional disclosures on their packaging to differentiate them from traditional dairy products.
In this evolving landscape, products like Walgreens Calcium Citrate Plus with Magnesium might find a niche as consumers seek out health-oriented options among plant-based alternatives. Emphasizing health benefits alongside taste and texture will be vital for capturing the attention of today’s discerning consumers.