Consumer demand for plant proteins on the rise

More U.S. consumers are discovering they don’t need beef, poultry, pork or seafood when it comes to meeting their protein needs. The thriving and growing market for plant proteins has given Americans the push to become less reliant upon — or in some cases even entirely forgo — animal-based protein sources, according to "Food Formulation and Ingredient Trends: Plant Proteins," a new report from market research publisher Packaged Facts, a division of Rockville, Md.-based MarketResearch.com.

“Consumer interest in boosting protein intake remains strong headed into 2016, with more attention being paid to the specific types of protein being consumed," said David Sprinkle, research director, Packaged Facts. "The desire for clean labels, ease of digestion, the need or desire to avoid allergens, compatibility with vegetarian and vegan lifestyles and concerns about sustainability among the general population are putting the spotlight on plant proteins.

"Consumer notions of what constitutes a good protein source are expanding to include a wider variety of plant protein ingredients," he added. "Subsequently, interest in plant protein ingredients among food manufacturers and foodservice operators is intensifying.”

In the United States, the current high level of interest in plant proteins can be attributed to the convergence of several factors, including increased consumer awareness and demand for dietary protein. Heightened consumer interest in flexitarian, vegetarian and vegan lifestyles is, in part, a result of a growing list of concerns related to meat production and consumption, Packaged Facts, stated, including environmental and economic sustainability, the presence of antibiotic and hormone residues and inhumane treatment of animals. The greater affordability of vegetarian protein options also is not to be overlooked. Concurrently, a growing list of health benefits is being associated with plant-based diets.

For more information about the report, visit www.packagedfacts.com/redirect.asp?progid=88384&productid=9820141.