Plant-based alternatives

The global meat and dairy sector is currently going through an unprecedented level of competition and disruption from the growth of viable plant-based alternatives across many categories. Gone are the days where plant-based alternative products were for the niche consumer and warranted limited shelf space.

Key findings

• Greater awareness of environmental and ethical impacts of producing and consuming meat & dairy based products, and an increase in healthy lifestyle choices have driven changes in consumer behaviour.

• New product development - Plant-based alternatives are gaining an increased amount of shelf space in supermarkets. There is also significant media attention on new releases.
• Many companies are revising their strategy to ensure that they remain competitive in the changing market. This can include either new product development and/or the acquisition of existing plant-based alternative producers.