FOOD EXPORT ASSOCIATION OF THE MIDWEST USA /FOOD EXPORT USA -NORTHEAST ®
®
The bi-monthly newsletter for importers of U.S. foods
September/October 2024
Vol. 20 No. 5
Plant-Based Segment Experiencing Mixed Results The plant-based food segment has been steadily rising in recent years, driven by consumer interest in health, sustainability, and dietary variety. However, the market is highly segmented, and not all plant-based categories are enjoying equal success. For example, plant-based meats are finding it much harder to gain market share than plant-based milks. According to Megan Shumaker, Director of Category Solutions at Daymon, the plant-based market is bifurcated into niche products catering to dietary lifestyle users and mass-appeal items that attract a broader consumer base. Niche products include plant-based cheese and meats, often favored by vegan and vegetarian consumers. On the other hand, products like plant-based yogurts and ice creams bridge the gap between these specific dietary preferences and the mainstream market. Retailers across the spectrum, from specialty grocers to conventional grocery and club stores, are increasingly adopting plant-based strategies to cater to this dual demand.
Popular Plant-Based Items
The most popular categories successfully bridge the gap between vegan, vegetarian, and general consumers. Plant-based beverages, yogurts, milks, creamers, frozen novelties, and ice cream continue attracting significant shopper attention. These products appeal to those with dietary restrictions and consumers drawn to their nutritional and sustainable benefits. (Continued on page 2)
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