How Food Manufacturers Can Meet Changing Demands For Alternative Proteins

As consumer demand for new, innovative foods continues to increase, manufacturers have one question on their minds: “What’s next?”

With so much growth in the alternative meat and dairy product categories, all eyes are now shifting to finding new protein sources. Over the past few years, synthetic brands like Impossible and Beyond Meats have become mainstays at grocery stores and restaurants. Even the fast food industry has begun adding plant-based meat alternatives to their menus. But what if plant-based meat is only the beginning?

Manufacturers must invest in the proper systems to remain competitive as there’s more and more widespread demand for pure plant protein and even a growing interest in insects.

Why Alternative Protein?

Why do so many consumers seem interested in giving up traditional meat? Here are some of the leading factors shaping the landscape:

Consumers demand sustainable food.

More than ever before, consumers want food that won’t contribute to global warming the way that livestock production does. Gen Z especially wants to see these plant-based alternative proteins — evidence shows that this isn’t just a fad but rather a collective lifestyle change.

Consumers demand cruelty-free food.

The vegan movement, once on the fringes of society, is now mainstream. While environmental concerns are certainly tied to the movement, more and more consumers are also frustrated with how animals are treated, and they’re no longer buying into the happy farm images on product packaging.

Governments and NGOs want sustainable food.

It’s not just consumers who want to see more alternatives to meat and dairy products on the market. Government agencies and nonprofit organizations are advocating for an increase in more sustainable food that can meet the needs of a growing population without negatively impacting the environment. Preserving the farmland and water resources that otherwise go to factory farming is crucial to feeding future generations. States like California are even investing in academic research into alternative proteins.

Governments are promoting nutritional balance.

Food awareness is an important part of consumers’ lives, and much of their food is researched in advance. Research suggests plant-based proteins are in some ways healthier than meat, providing more nutrients. Across the world, schools are experimenting with alternative proteins to provide better nutrition to students as well.

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