Americans are increasingly demanding plant-based foods, regardless of their preference in diet. According to the NPD Group, 4 in 10 U.S. consumers increased their consumption of meat alternatives and/or substitutes in 2017 alone, and the number is predicted to continue to rise. But this does not necessarily mean that vegans and vegetarian diets are on the rise – consumers are choosing plant-based foods because of the perception that these foods are better for them and for the environment. There is a growing interest in health and weight management, sustainability, and environmental ethics that is taking this once niche market into the mainstream. More and more consumers are considering themselves “flexitarian” – a diet that consists primarily of plant-based foods and meals, which occasionally features meat or fish. It is the flexitarians that are driving the market towards plant-based food and milk alternatives, such as nut milks made from almonds, hazelnuts, and cashews. These consumers who once had meat as a consistent part of their diet are choosing the meat-alternatives more frequently, causing for the shift. Convenience is playing a huge role in the plant power movement. Consumers who aren’t confident in their cooking abilities, have medical conditions, or are dieters seek out establishments that provide meat and dairy alternatives. Having to request alternatives or changes to their meals is much less appealing than walking in and knowing their diet choice is available. These establishments are more likely to see that customer again, having gained their confidence in knowing they can purchase meat and dairy alternatives there. Companies that have traditionally been “meat providers” are making the switch over to the plant powered world as a result of this new market push. Tyson Foods Inc., a company that primarily provides chicken products, has reported they will be making the shift to alternative proteins, according to Bloomberg Businessweek. Cargill Inc. and Hormel Food Corp. are also joining in on the animal-free trend as well, with meatless products projected to release later this year. Adding meat and dairy alternatives to the c-store menu not only will bring more flexitarian-, vegan-, and vegetarian-diet consumers in, but let consumers know the store is conscious of the changing times. Healthy lifestyle trends aside, consumers find the plant-based products to be better for the environment. The increase in awareness for the environment and animal-welfare has changed how consumers are viewing foods – and stores who pay attention to consumers’ interests are the ones who will gain their trust the quickest.
