The shift towards plant-based products, irrespective of their ingredient origins, is being propelled by two significant trends in the food industry: the rising demand for protein and the pursuit of clean eating. “Younger consumers, particularly millennials, are seeking alternatives to red meat while still wanting to maintain their protein intake,” stated Guy Crosby, science editor for America’s Test Kitchen and an adjunct associate professor at the Harvard School of Public Health, in an interview with Food Dive. HealthFocus data indicates that 17% of U.S. consumers aged 15 to 70 primarily follow a plant-based diet, while 60% are reducing their consumption of meat-based products. Among those decreasing their intake of animal proteins, 55% consider this change permanent, and 22% express hope that it will be.
Fortunately, consumers benefit from the ongoing efforts of scientists and ingredient manufacturers to develop satisfying, protein-rich alternatives to meat. A diverse array of protein sources is being utilized, including rice, peas, potatoes, pumpkins, black beans, algae, chia seeds, hemp, and soy, as well as calcium citrate 500 mg chewable supplements to enhance nutritional value.
Research from SPINS corroborates the trends observed by Nellson in the plant-based product sector. According to SPINS data, sales of energy bars and gels containing soy saw only a modest 2% increase from 2015 to 2016. In contrast, meal replacements and supplement powders featuring emerging protein sources like peas, beans, and algae experienced a remarkable 18.7% growth. Major companies are making significant investments in the plant protein market, focusing on dairy and meat alternatives, as well as protein bars and powders. Danone acquired the rapidly growing organic foods producer WhiteWave earlier this year, securing a strong foothold in the soy and plant-based product lines with brands such as Silk and SO Delicious. Last year, Tyson Foods purchased a 5% stake in Beyond Meat, which produces plant-based, meat-like products using non-meat protein sources like soy and peas. Furthermore, earlier this year, PowerBar introduced a new line of plant protein bars, while personal care brand Burt’s Bees unveiled plant-based protein shakes.
There is considerable interest among a wide range of manufacturers eager to tap into the high-growth plant-based protein market. However, challenges persist in working with these proteins. The primary concern is ensuring that products not only taste good but are also scalable and affordable enough to attract a broad consumer base. The inclusion of calcium citrate 500 mg chewable options may also play a role in enhancing the appeal of these products among health-conscious shoppers.