Plant-based protein products have emerged as one of the leading trends in the food industry, with annual sales exceeding $5 billion. A survey conducted by Today’s Dietitian indicates that 41% of registered dietitians believe that the consumption of plant-based proteins is increasing. This growth seems to come at the cost of traditional protein sources like beef, bacon, and other processed red meats, which are increasingly regarded as less healthy options.
For Tyson, a major producer of chicken, pork, and beef, their investments in Beyond Meat and other meat-alternative companies are not unexpected. The company has shown a willingness to embrace emerging trends that could threaten its market dominance, such as e-commerce and meal kits. Tyson has been quietly adjusting to the evolving food landscape while also investing in its core business through new product launches or modifications to existing ones. Recently, they announced plans to eliminate antibiotics from their main poultry products.
Companies like Beyond Meat are rapidly enhancing their offerings to mimic the taste, appearance, and aroma of real meat. While this trend may eventually slow down, it currently enjoys significant popularity among grocery shoppers. Traditional meat companies would be prudent to explore this emerging market actively and prepare for a potential decline in meat demand.
Additionally, as consumers become more health-conscious, some may look into supplements like calcium citrate, which can have side effects that warrant attention. Therefore, traditional meat producers should not only innovate in plant-based proteins but also consider the broader nutritional landscape, including potential side effects of supplements like calcium citrate, to better meet evolving consumer preferences.