Andre Tomaselli Sabara, Director of Sales, ESG and Marketing Components of a concept / Group Sabara
According to future market insights, The plant-based ingredients market is expected to accelerate at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.6% over the next decade, growing from approximately $9.3 billion in 2024 to $21.2 billion in 2034. Drivers of this expected growth include consumer interest; Macro trends and accelerating innovation. Let’s look at these factors in a little more detail.
Demand for health benefits and functional materials
Many consumers are choosing plant-based proteins due to dietary restrictions, allergies, or a desire for healthier options, increasing demand for low-calorie, unsweetened products. This trend has shifted consumer preferences away from traditional meat sources, and plant-based proteins are gaining traction in areas as diverse as sports nutrition and infant nutrition.
Increasing awareness of the functional benefits of plant-based proteins and effective marketing strategies targeting health-conscious consumers are further stimulating demand. Brands that emphasize health benefits and innovate in taste and nutrition are seeing remarkable success.
According to a global market research agency mintelhealth-conscious consumers are increasingly placing importance on ingredients that contribute to balanced nutrition. 45% of consumers cite this as a reason for purchasing plant-based protein. Beyond protein, consumer concerns also include sources of fiber, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants found in ingredients such as soy, oats, and flax.
While challenges such as high production costs and raw material shortages continue to impact the market, consumer trends and industry innovations provide a solid foundation for future growth, with overall The outlook remains bright.
Sustainability and environmental friendliness
The environmental impact of food production is a strong motivator for choosing plant-based ingredients. More and more people are actively seeking food options that nourish their bodies and align with their values about the planet and ethical practices. Sustainability is critical to this change, as plant-based proteins are recognized to have a lower environmental impact than traditional animal-based proteins. Additionally, there is a growing demand for allergen-friendly products and diverse, flavorful products that meet a wide range of dietary needs. This situation reflects a major shift in the way people approach food and is driving innovation and change in the food industry.
Transparency and raw material sourcing
Consumers, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, are demanding transparency from the companies they do business with, especially in the food industry. In the days of simply listing ingredients, we want to know where and how they were sourced, whether the food is minimally processed, non-GMO, and free of artificial additives. I started thinking that. Companies can address these consumer interests by prioritizing the ethical sourcing of high-quality ingredients and providing a window into the food journey of their food through their websites and social channels. Challenger brands in particular have cracked the code to convey a clear message that resonates with these audiences.
Sustainable and ethical sourcing
Environmentally and ethically sustainable products continue to capture consumer interest and increase brand affinity. While there is still work to be done, significant progress is being made across the food production system, including sustainable sourcing, fair trade, regenerative agriculture and waste reduction.
Opportunity for wider appeal
Veganism continues to gain traction, but in the United States it remains Approximately 1% of the populationaccording to Gallup. In the same poll, only 4% of people considered themselves vegetarian. However, when flexitarians are taken into account, the segment favoring plant-based foods becomes significantly larger. According to molecular research, 72 million US households are flexitarian98% of consumers who purchase plant-based protein alternatives also purchase animal meat.
Brands appeal to all groups by thinking more broadly about consumers and understanding the commonalities they share: an interest in global flavors, new foods, and products that help them on their health and nutrition journeys. This will be a great opportunity.
research from mintel According to a report, taste is a major barrier to widespread adoption of plant-based foods, with 42% of consumers disengaged due to taste concerns. Flavor and texture remain top priorities for plant-based consumers, who often compare plant-based to animal-based ingredients. To appeal to a wider audience, the brand focuses on innovations in mouthfeel, taste and application flexibility. For example, more innovative textures, blending options, and pre-flavored ingredients are addressing some of the key concerns of plant-based foods.
The future of plant-based ingredients is bright, with vast potential for brands to address the growing demand for health, sustainability, and transparency. By focusing on functional nutrition, sustainability, and innovation, brands can meet consumer needs and foster long-term loyalty in an increasingly competitive market. The continued development of flavorful, functional and ethically sourced plant-based ingredients offers food producers a mutually beneficial path to contributing to a healthier and more sustainable food system. Masu.
