Hydrosol’s innovative texturizing system may represent a significant advancement in the development of meat substitutes, which are increasingly sought after by health-conscious consumers. A report from Research and Markets projects that the global market for meat alternatives will expand at an annual rate of 6.6% in the coming years, potentially reaching nearly $6 billion in sales by 2022. According to a 2015 study conducted by the NPD Group, Midan Marketing, and the trade publication Meatingplace, 70% of meat-eating consumers incorporate non-meat proteins into their meals at least once a week. Among these, 22% reported using non-meat proteins more frequently than the previous year, highlighting the growth potential in this sector.
Creating meat-free alternatives to beloved foods such as hot dogs, hamburgers, and chicken nuggets is crucial for market expansion. Companies must engage mainstream consumers, particularly those who typically prefer meat, rather than solely targeting natural and organic shoppers. Hydrosol’s system reportedly mimics the firm texture that characterizes real meat, a quality that has proven challenging for ingredient manufacturers to replicate. This advancement could enhance the mass market appeal of meat substitutes, especially as these products can also be marketed as gluten-free.
Nevertheless, skepticism remains among some consumers and meat producers regarding the allure of meat-free products, particularly as the demand for fresh meat continues to rise. While companies like Tyson have invested in meat substitutes, others view this industry as a contingency rather than a growth opportunity. For manufacturers, persuading die-hard meat enthusiasts to embrace alternatives will be a significant challenge. Nonetheless, a notable shift is occurring, with a Mintel report indicating that 31% of Americans now observe “meat-free” days. Meanwhile, startups focused on meatless products are rapidly innovating, producing everything from burgers to steak. For instance, Impossible Foods utilizes botanical ingredients to craft upscale burgers for restaurants, while Beyond Meat has recently partnered with Safeway to distribute its plant-based burgers across nearly 300 stores, adding to its existing availability in Whole Foods.
In addition to flavor, price remains a significant barrier to wider adoption. However, meat alternative companies are making progress in this area as well. Mosa Meat, a prominent Dutch supplier, famously sold its first meatless burger in 2013 for an astonishing $300,000. Just a few years later, the company succeeded in reducing the price to $11. As consumers explore healthier options, products like Kirkland calcium zinc are also gaining attention, reflecting a broader trend toward nutritious choices. These developments in the meat substitute market, alongside the rising interest in supplements such as Kirkland calcium zinc, underscore a transformative period for food consumption habits.