The global plant protein market has been growing rapidly in the past few years. The growth is primarily backed by the rising flexitarian trend in most countries. A Flexitarian diet is likely to expand plant-protein manufacturers’ consumer base, which in turn increases profitability. Moreover, the adoption of a vegetable diet and vegan meals due to the increasing health consciousness and evolving veganism among a large population is expanding the market growth.

Changing lifestyles is driving consumers’ food habits. Consumers are becoming more conscious about what they eat. As a result, demand for high protein products which has less carbon footprint, such as plant-based protein, is rising. Also, the ongoing coronavirus pandemic is creating demand for plant-based meats, as consumers are avoiding animal-based products due to health concerns. The trend is creating opportunities for manufacturers to meet the rising demand. The trend towards more plant-based foods and diets has increased the number and types of products in the market. Therefore, F&B companies have been developing new plant-based products utilizing innovative ingredients to capture the market. For instance,

Tempeh- Tempeh is a traditional Indonesian food packed with protein, fiber, and nine essential amino acids and prepared with three simple, whole-food ingredients-fermented soybeans, brown rice, and water. Since the products are low in fat, high in protein, and have a chewy texture with a nutty taste, tempeh has seen a sales boost in recent years as many consumers have turned to plant-based options to stay healthy.

• Notably, in March 2022, Lightlife brought into the United States market a new ready-to-cook product, Lightlife Tempeh Cubes. Specifically, the company is innovating with its product range by growing its portfolio of top-selling tempeh products. These new offerings are available in three marinated varieties: Teriyaki, Southwest, and Tikka Masala. These are pre-cut, pre-seasoned with thirteen grams of protein per serving, providing the consumer to prepare a quick, nutritious, and delicious meal.

Pea- Another plant protein that saw increasing demand with the need for a responsible lifestyle is pea. Gluten-free, soy-free, and hypo-allergenic qualities make pea protein ideal for these requirements. Also, it has a good amino acid profile as well as a good protein digestibility making it widely acceptable by consumers. The growing trend of consumption of health and sports drinks by consumers triggered the demand for pea proteins.

• In February 2022, United Kingdom-based soft drinks company, Britvic, partnered with Xampla to use the latter’s tech in its vitamin fortified drinks. Xampla, which is backed by the University of Cambridge, developed technology from pea protein to produce microscopic capsules to be used in liquids that will protect the vitamins from being broken down by sunlight.

Jack-fruit- Jack-fruit is the newfound plant protein that has been used by food-tech start-ups to develop plant-based meat products. Additionally, ingredients such as jackfruit help to maintain the soil health providing a diverse textural and flavor experience for consumption.

• In March 2022, Singapore-based food tech start-up Karana, introduced a jackfruit-based meat alternative to be introduced in the restaurant market. A range of meat products had been developed by the company, from whole plants with jackfruit. It is a fruit from the fig, mulberry, and breadfruit family that is indigenous to Southeast Asia. The company also introduced plant-based ground meat and a plant-based version of classic pork gyoza.

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