Plant-Based Foods Presents Rapid Growth For Food And Beverage Industries

The Covid-19 pandemic has dramatically changed the way we live, work, and eat.  People have been forced to rethink their diets and eating habits, leading to an increased interest in plant-based foods.
 
Veganism is becoming more mainstream as people look for healthier, more sustainable alternatives to animal products and for natural ways to boost one’s immune system.  Key findings reveal the following insights.
 

• “The global market for plant-based meat substitutes is expected to reach $7.5 billion by 2025, “according to research by MarketsandMarkets.

 

• “Plant-based meat and dairy alternatives are already making up nearly 8 percent of the so-called global “protein foods” market. And according to the Bloomberg Intelligence Report, plant-based food sales are expected to increase fivefold by 2030.”  (Source:  Food Revolution Network)

 

• “Though they are growing, vegans are still small in number compared to the entire U.S. population. About 5 percent of respondents were vegan in the Statista Global Consumer Survey on diets and nutrition in the U.S. in 2022.” (Source: Sentient Media)

 
In this blog, Allen Marketing Communications, Inc, a Food and Beverage PR agency in NYC, will explore how the Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated the interest in plant-based foods.
 
What Are The Health Benefits Of A Vegan Diet?
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Plant-based foods are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and improve overall health.  Numerous studies have shown that a plant based diet helps to reduce chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and some forms of cancer.
 
A vegan diet is high in fiber, which is essential for maintaining a healthy gut. Fiber helps promote regular bowel movements, reduce inflammation in the gut, and feed the beneficial bacteria in our digestive system.
 
What Are The Key Trends In The Plant-Based Food and Beverage Industries?
 
Plant-Based Seafood
Plant-based seafood is a relatively new product category in the plant-based food market. In fact, “the global market for plant-based seafood is expected to reach $1.3 billion by 2025,” according to research by MarketsandMarkets.
 
These products are made using a combination of plant-based ingredients, such as legumes, seaweed, and algae, as well as flavorings and other ingredients that mimic the taste, texture, and appearance of seafood, such as shrimp, crab, and tuna.
 
Seafood alternatives are anticipated to gain market share in the near future since plant-based food advancements have recently advanced. Diverse seafood species make it easier to develop seafood substitutes, giving consumers more options when they want to expand their selection of plant-based proteins.
 
Fermented Plant-Based Foods
Fermented plant-based foods are another growing category in the plant-based food industry. “The global market for fermented plant-based foods is expected to reach $730 million by 2024,” according to research by MarketsandMarkets.
 
Fermentation is a process that involves the conversion of carbohydrates to organic acids and gases by microorganisms. This process can enhance the flavor, texture, and nutritional value of foods.
 
Popular fermented plant-based foods include kimchi, sauerkraut, and tempeh. These products are typically high in beneficial bacteria, which can promote gut health and boost the immune system.
 
Plant-Based Meat Substitutes
Plant-based meat substitutes use pea protein, soy protein, and wheat protein, as well as fats and other ingredients that give them a meat-like texture and taste.  The plant-based products mimic the texture, taste, and appearance of meat.
 
Dairy Alternatives
Plant-based milks – almond, coconut, oat and soy – are becoming more mainstream. The dairy alternatives are often fortified with vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy option for lactose intolerant individuals or consumers who have ethical reasons for avoiding dairy products.
 
Plant-based cheeses and yogurts are also becoming more common. Companies are creating vegan cheese alternatives that are made from ingredients such as cashews and coconut oil. These products are often indistinguishable from dairy-based products.
 
“Lab-grown dairy could challenge plant-based substitutes by capturing between 35 percent and 50 percent of the market share during the following ten years. In the longer term, the challenges from lab-grown milk will encourage dairy and non-dairy to merge forces and grasp the chance to present their hybrid goods as the 'best of both worlds.’ (Source: Mintel)
 
Plant-Based Snacks
Plant-based snacks are providing consumers with healthy snack options that are made from whole grain and plant-based ingredients.
 
Kale chips are a popular snack made from dehydrated kale leaves. It is a healthy alternative to potato chips, lower in calories and available in a variety of flavors.
 
Another popular plant-based snack is roasted chickpeas. Chickpeas are high in protein and fiber, making them a healthy and filling snack. The roasted chickpeas can be seasoned with a variety of spices and are often crunchy and satisfying.
 
As the plant-based food and beverage industries continue to grow, Allen Marketing Communications, Inc. a Food and Beverage PR agency NYC, can help food and beverages generate brand and consumer awareness for the innovative and diverse products hitting the market.
 
By Joanna Allen, chief executive officer, Allen Marketing Communications, Inc.