Plant-Based Food & Beverage Market: The Flexitarian Saga A 2022 study on Sweden’s attitude toward plant-based foods involved four groups, flexitarians, consumers who prefer to only eat meat, consumers who prefer meat & fish but avoid vegetarian food, and omnivores (mixed diet). The study found that flexitarians consume considerably more Plant-Based Meat Alternatives (PBMA) and pulses than the other three groups. Additionally, it concluded that flexitarians’ beliefs and attitudes aligned with sustainability (Source). As per Inkwood Research, the global plant-based food & beverage market is estimated to register a CAGR of 10.79% and reach a revenue of $104707.43 million by 2032.
This blog attempts to explain how flexitarians can be a lucrative target group for plantbased food & beverage companies. Flexitarianism is going mainstream. It is comparatively less strict than veganism and vegetarianism since it does not entirely eliminate meat or dairy products from the daily diet. At the same time, it promotes incorporating a significant amount of fruits, vegetables, plantbased proteins, and whole grains.
Flexitarian Proteins – Best of Both Worlds The global demand for protein is rising with the growing population and income levels. As a result, there will be increased demand for plant and animal proteins. Moreover, as per a May 2021 USB Soy Protein and Flexitarian Study, young consumers drive plant-based protein demands. The respondents self-identified as vegan, flexitarian, pescatarian, omnivore, and vegetarian. As per the study, 65% of consumers in the United States welcome plant-based foods. However, the interest is highest among the younger generation. Further, as per the same study, 60% of consumers aged 60 and below agree that a plant-based protein is complete. At the same time, limited intake of animal products or meat warrants insufficient protein intake concerns. In this regard, flexitarians have ample choices regarding protein sources. They often eat plant-based and conventional dairy products like soy milk and animal-based milk, which are considered complete protein sources. Concerning soy protein, says Kennan McRobers, Ph.D., vice president of science and program strategy for United Soybean Board, “Soy protein provides the highest percentage of protein per calorie compared to other plant protein sources. The high protein density of