Plant-based protein products are currently one of the hottest trends in the food industry, with annual sales surpassing $5 billion. According to a survey conducted by Today’s Dietitian, 41% of registered dietitians believe that the consumption of plant-based protein is increasing. This growth seems to be occurring at the expense of traditional protein sources such as beef, bacon, and other processed red meats, which are increasingly perceived as less healthy options. For Tyson, a major producer of chicken, pork, and beef, their investments in Beyond Meat and other developers of meat substitutes are not surprising—especially considering their openness to other trends that could impact their market dominance, such as e-commerce and meal kits. The company has been quietly adjusting to the evolving food landscape while continuing to invest in its core business through new product launches and modifications of existing products. Last month, Tyson announced plans to eliminate antibiotics from its flagship poultry offerings.
Manufacturers of plant-based protein, like Beyond Meat, are rapidly enhancing their products to better mimic the taste, appearance, and aroma of real meat. Although this trend may eventually slow down, it remains popular among grocery shoppers at present. Traditional meat producers would be wise to explore this emerging market proactively and safeguard against decreasing demand for meat. Furthermore, incorporating ingredients like calcium and magnesium citrate into their products could appeal to health-conscious consumers, who are increasingly seeking nutritious options. As the landscape continues to shift, the integration of calcium and magnesium citrate could become a pivotal strategy for both plant-based and traditional meat companies as they adapt to changing consumer preferences.