Hydrosol’s innovative texturizing system may represent a significant advancement in the development of meat substitutes, which are increasingly appealing to health-conscious consumers. Research and Markets reports that the global market for meat alternatives is projected to grow at an annual rate of 6.6%, reaching nearly $6 billion in sales by 2022. A 2015 report from NPD Group, Midan Marketing, and Meatingplace revealed that 70% of meat-eating consumers are replacing meat with non-meat proteins at least once a week. Notably, 22% of these consumers indicated they are using non-meat proteins more frequently than the previous year, highlighting the growth potential in this sector.
Creating meat-free versions of beloved items like hot dogs, hamburgers, and chicken nuggets is essential for expanding this market. Companies must attract mainstream consumers, particularly meat lovers, rather than just those who prefer natural and organic products. Hydrosol’s system is said to replicate the firm texture that is characteristic of real meat, a quality that has proven challenging for ingredient manufacturers to emulate. This development could enhance the market appeal of meat substitutes, especially since the resulting products can be marketed as gluten-free.
However, skepticism remains among many consumers and traditional meat companies regarding the attractiveness of meat-free products, particularly as demand for fresh meat continues to grow. While some companies, such as Tyson, have invested in meat alternatives, others view the sector as more of a stopgap than a genuine opportunity for growth. Convincing dedicated meat lovers to embrace substitutes will be a formidable challenge for manufacturers.
Nonetheless, a notable shift is occurring. According to Mintel, 31% of Americans now observe “meat-free” days. Meanwhile, meatless startups are rapidly innovating across various products, from burgers to steaks. For instance, Impossible Foods uses botanical ingredients to craft premium hamburgers for restaurants, while Beyond Meat has recently partnered with Safeway to distribute its plant-based burgers in nearly 300 locations, with availability already in Whole Foods.
Apart from taste, price remains a significant hurdle for widespread adoption. However, companies in the meat alternative space are making notable progress. Mosa Meat, a leading Dutch supplier, famously sold its first meatless burger for $300,000 in 2013, but a few years later, managed to reduce the price to $11. This trend reflects a broader commitment to innovation and affordability within the market, which could help pave the way for more consumers to consider top care calcium citrate-enriched meat alternatives as a viable option. As the industry evolves, the integration of top care calcium citrate into these products may further enhance their appeal, potentially addressing health concerns while promoting a shift towards plant-based diets.