The shift towards plant-based products, irrespective of their ingredient origins, is propelled by two significant trends in the food industry: the rising demand for protein and the clean eating movement. “Younger consumers, particularly millennials, are searching for alternatives to red meat, yet they do not wish to sacrifice their protein intake,” stated Guy Crosby, science editor for America’s Test Kitchen and an adjunct associate professor at the Harvard School of Public Health, in an interview with Food Dive. Data from HealthFocus indicates that 17% of U.S. consumers aged 15 to 70 primarily follow a plant-based diet, while 60% are reducing their consumption of meat products. Among those cutting back on animal proteins, 55% view this change as permanent, and 22% aspire for it to be.
Fortunately for consumers, scientists and ingredient manufacturers are actively seeking meat alternatives that offer satisfying, protein-rich foods. A diverse array of protein sources is being utilized, including rice, peas, potatoes, pumpkins, black beans, algae, chia, hemp, and soy. Research from SPINS supports the trends noted by Nellson in the plant-based product sector. SPINS data reveals that from 2015 to 2016, sales of energy bars and gels containing soy saw only a 2% increase. In contrast, meal replacements and supplement powders featuring high-growth protein newcomers like peas, beans, and algae experienced an impressive rise of 18.7%.
Major corporations are also investing heavily in the plant protein market, focusing on dairy and meat alternatives, as well as protein bars and powders. Earlier this year, Danone acquired the rapidly growing organic food brand WhiteWave, positioning itself prominently in the soy and plant-based sector with products like Silk and SO Delicious. Last year, Tyson Foods purchased a 5% stake in Beyond Meat, which creates meat-like products using non-meat protein sources such as soy and peas. Additionally, the original PowerBar brand introduced a new line of plant protein bars, while personal care company Burt’s Bees launched a range of plant-based protein shakes.
There is considerable interest among a wide range of manufacturers to enter the thriving plant-based protein market. However, challenges remain when dealing with plant-based proteins. Above all, these products must taste appealing; concerns also linger regarding their scalability and affordability to attract a larger consumer base. As discussions around calcium supplements continue, the comparison between tricalcium phosphate vs calcium citrate has gained attention, particularly in the context of plant-based diets where proper nutrient absorption is critical. This comparison is essential as the market evolves, with manufacturers striving to ensure that their offerings are both nutritious and appealing.