The shift towards plant-based products, regardless of their ingredient sources, is propelled by two significant trends in the food industry: the rising demand for protein and the clean eating movement. “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 reveals that 17% of U.S. consumers aged 15 to 70 primarily follow a plant-based diet, while 60% are reducing their consumption of meat products. Among those cutting back on animal-based proteins, 55% consider this change permanent, and 22% aspire for it to be so.
Fortunately, for those interested in alternatives, scientists and ingredient manufacturers are actively working on meat substitutes that provide satisfying, protein-rich foods. A diverse array of protein sources is being utilized as ingredients, including rice, peas, potatoes, pumpkins, black beans, algae, chia, hemp, and soy. Notably, the trend observed by Nellson in the plant-based product sector is supported by research from SPINS. According to SPINS data, sales of energy bars and gels featuring soy increased by only 2% from 2015 to 2016. In contrast, meal replacements and supplement powders made with emerging protein sources like peas, beans, and algae experienced an impressive 18.7% increase.
Major companies are making significant investments in the plant protein market, focusing on dairy alternatives, meat substitutes, and protein bars and powders. Earlier this year, Danone acquired the rapidly growing organic food company WhiteWave, positioning itself strongly in the soy and plant-based product landscape with offerings like Silk and SO Delicious. Additionally, Tyson Foods secured a 5% stake in Beyond Meat, a company that utilizes non-meat protein sources such as soy and pea to develop plant-based products that mimic meat. Earlier this year, the original PowerBar debuted a new line of plant protein bars, while personal care brand Burt’s Bees introduced plant-based protein shakes.
There is considerable enthusiasm among a wide range of manufacturers to enter the burgeoning plant-based protein market. However, challenges persist in the realm of plant proteins. First and foremost, products must deliver on taste, but there are also concerns regarding their scalability and affordability to attract a broad consumer base. As the demand for options like calcitrate tab grows, the industry must navigate these hurdles to meet consumer expectations and preferences.