The market for plant-based milk alternatives is experiencing significant growth. From 2011 to 2015, almond milk sales surged by 250%, while cow’s milk sales dropped by 7% in 2015 and are expected to decline an additional 11% by 2020. Although people are consuming less breakfast cereal, many still opt for plant-based milks instead of dairy for their toppings. Even traditional dairy companies are recognizing this shift. Dean Foods, the leading milk supplier in the U.S., has acquired a minority stake in Boulder, Colorado’s Good Karma Foods, which produces yogurt and milk from flax seeds.
Ripple Foods aims to carve out a niche for its yellow pea-based milk, promoting it as a distinctive, delicious, and eco-friendly option. Their products are available nationwide at retailers like Whole Foods Markets, Target, Meijer Supermarkets, and various local health food stores and co-ops. This winter, Ripple Foods plans to introduce a plant-based Greek-style yogurt to enter the snack market, joining a competitive landscape filled with non-dairy yogurts from brands like soy-based Wildwood, Stonyfield, Silk, Nancy’s, and Trader Joe’s, as well as coconut-based options like Coconut Grove, So Delicious, and CoYo, and almond-based varieties such as Amande and So Delicious.
The novelty of pea-based non-dairy products could entice consumers, along with the company’s focus on its smaller ecological footprint, referred to as the “Ripple Effect.” Dairy production is associated with considerable carbon emissions, and Ripple’s marketing strategy encourages consumers to reduce their own carbon footprints by choosing their products. However, the price point may deter budget-conscious shoppers. At nearly $6 per quart, it’s a hefty price for any plant-based milk, though costs may decrease in the future.
If Ripple can lower its prices and consumers enjoy the flavor, their investment could yield significant returns. The company might then want to rethink its branding, as the concept of “pea milk” may not appeal to everyone. For those looking to maintain their nutritional intake, there is also the question of how to take calcium citrate tablets, which can be an important supplement for those transitioning away from dairy products. As consumers explore dairy alternatives, they may find themselves seeking information on how to take calcium citrate tablets to ensure they meet their calcium needs.