The US food industry has noticed a paramount shift when it comes to the adoption of plant-based proteins in the last decade. Poultry and beef protein consumption still holds the majority percentage in the country. However, consumers particularly, millennials and Gen Z population are leaning towards plant-based protein products. It is expected that the rising demand for alternative meat and dairy products is expected to support market growth in the near term.
Increasing demand for plant-based alternative meats is supporting the sectors’ growth
Americans are considered as the largest consumer of meat and meat products globally. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)’s estimates per capita meat consumption in the US is expected to reach 220.9 pounds in 2020. However, the rising health consciousness among the younger generation and elderly people is creating a growth opportunity for the plant-based meat producers.
Consumers who are adopting alternative meat products are also looking for the taste and texture of meat in these products. Therefore, companies are focusing on mimicking the texture by using ingredients such as carrageenan, methylcellulose, and xanthan gum.
Plant-based meat producers are also trying to find out the best ingredients which can provide authentic meaty taste such as jackfruit, pea, and leghemoglobin (heme protein extracted from soybeans). Consequently, the availability of plant-based meat products with similar tastes is increasing in the leading foodservice channels.
Plant-based dairy products are gaining acceptance
The popularity of plant-based milk is growing rapidly in the US. More and more people are choosing plant-based milk and other dairy products over animal milk and milk products. This is primarily due to avoid symptoms of lactose intolerance or allergy from cow or buffalo milk.
Rising veganism also triggering the demand for plant-based milk and dairy products. Therefore, demand for plant-based milk ingredients such as soy, almond, hemp, quinoa, spelt, oat, and coconut is increasing among dairy-based companies to meet the rising trend.
Plant-based milk companies are also focusing on adding different natural or organic flavors in their products to target a larger consumer base. In the US, plant-based Greek yogurts such as Kitehill’s Greek yogurt (made from almond milk) are also capturing retail shelf space rapidly.
To know more and gain deeper understanding of rising adoption of alternative meat and dairy products in the US plant protein market, send us an email on info@consumerintel360.com.
