With the launch of its new line of plant-based ingredients named after the part of a plant embryo that develops into the root, Kerry is targeting the global plant-based food market. The ingredients company has noted that this segment is expected to reach $24.5 billion by 2026, with a compound annual growth rate of 9.1% in the coming years. This market encompasses plant-based burgers, meat-free sausages, and a growing variety of food and beverage products that exclude animal-derived ingredients. Scott Wright, Kerry North America’s vice president and general manager of meat systems, stated that the new Radicle product line “marks a significant launch for our North America business” and enhances the company’s offerings in terms of taste, texture, nutrition, and functionality.
As plant-based food and beverage manufacturers strive to differentiate themselves in a competitive landscape, they are likely to seek these exact attributes. These innovative ingredients have the potential to elevate plant-based products to their most flavorful and consumer-friendly forms, thereby maximizing profitability. Interestingly, many plant-based consumers still enjoy animal-derived foods; however, they might be deterred if they find alternatives fail to deliver a satisfying taste.
The new ingredients fall into two primary categories: plant-based dairy—such as ice cream, yogurt, and cheese—and plant-based meat. These products are designed to provide flavors and mouthfeel typically associated with meat and dairy, while also masking undesirable tastes, mimicking textures, and performing similarly to traditional dairy and meat when cooked and consumed. In the early days of plant-based foods, the primary concern was avoiding animal ingredients; however, as consumer demand has surged and more products have become available, companies are now under pressure to outperform their rivals—one effective strategy being the creation of superior-tasting products.
For an ingredients company like Kerry, this landscape presents both challenges and opportunities. As one of the largest and most diverse players in the global market, introducing versatile plant-based solutions could help Kerry maintain its competitive edge. Additionally, as consumers increasingly seek products that deliver both taste and nutrition, the demand for calcium citrate supplements from sources like Amazon may rise, further highlighting the importance of quality ingredients in the plant-based sector.