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As the plant-based revolution continues to gain momentum, the variety and innovation of vegan products hitting the market is nothing short of remarkable. In 2022, global retail sales of plant-based meat products reached a staggering $6.1 billion, an 8% increase from the previous year. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. According to finance giant Credit Suisse, the vegan food market could reach a colossal $1.4 trillion by 2050, with vegan milk projected to hold 50% of the milk market share and vegan meat expected to claim 25% of the meat market share.
To get a glimpse of the future, we recently headed to the Natural Products Expo West 2024 in Anaheim, CA, where over 3,000 exhibitors and 65,000 attendees gathered to showcase the latest and greatest in plant-based innovations. From indulgent treats to savory meat alternatives, the show was a veritable treasure trove of the hottest new vegan products that are about to hit the shelves. Join us as we explore the most exciting and delectable offerings that will soon be gracing your local grocery stores and cafes.
Key Takeaways
- Global retail sales of plant-based meat products reached $6.1 billion in 2022, an 8% increase from the previous year.
- The vegan food market is projected to reach $1.4 trillion by 2050, with vegan milk and meat expected to hold significant market shares.
- The Natural Products Expo West 2024 showcased over 3,000 exhibitors and 65,000 attendees, highlighting the latest plant-based innovations.
- Vegan products are becoming increasingly diverse, with a focus on indulgent treats, savory meat alternatives, and breakfast innovations.
- Brands are continuously pushing the boundaries of plant-based creativity, introducing unique flavors and formulations to cater to evolving consumer preferences.
Rise of Plant-Based Innovations
In recent years, the plant-based food industry has experienced a remarkable surge in innovation and growth. Data reveals that the global plant-based alternatives market is predicted to reach $162 billion in the next decade, with plant-based products expected to account for around 7.7% of the global market.
The vegan meat market, including alternatives for fish, has become a significant sector within the plant-based industry. Campaigns like Veganuary have seen record-breaking retail participation, further fueling the demand for vegan products. Consumers are also embracing innovative vegan sweet treats, with a growing number of dairy-free and gluten-free options available.
| Trend | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Vegan Meat Market | A significant sector within the plant-based industry |
| Veganuary Campaign | Saw record-breaking retail participation in 2022 |
| Vegan Sweet Treats | Gaining popularity, with an increasing number of dairy-free and gluten-free options |
Major brands are responding to the growing demand for plant-based options by introducing new vegan products, such as cheeses, dairy alternatives, and meat substitutes. The global plant-based protein and non-dairy milk market is projected to increase by nearly 18 percent over the next three years, with research indicating a rise in the number of people transitioning to veganism globally.
Flexitarianism, a diet involving reduced meat consumption, is also gaining traction as an evidence-based approach to combat climate change. Transitioning half of the global population to a more plant-rich diet could significantly reduce emissions, and the fresh vegetable market is experiencing growth as a result of this shift.
Social media platforms have seen a surge in content related to plant-based eating, with millions of posts featuring the hashtag #Veganuary. This online presence has further driven the popularity of plant-based food trends, with the oat milk market growing by over 10 percent, exceeding $3 billion in value last year.
The plant-based industry continues to innovate, with new offerings such as a yogurt made from fungi protein and Kellogg’s subsidiary, WK Kellogg Co., launching a vegan cereal line called “Eat Your Mouth Off” with 22 grams of protein per serving. The global vegan cheese market is also expected to reach $4.7 billion by 2026, leading brands like Armored Fresh to expand their offerings.
As consumer demand for plant-based options continues to surge, the food industry is responding with a flood of innovative new vegan products that cater to evolving tastes and preferences.
Expo West: A Sneak Peek at the latest vegan products
Natural Products Expo West, the premier event for natural and organic products, has once again showcased the incredible innovation happening in the plant-based food industry. Our team at VegNews attended the show from March 12 to 16 in Anaheim, California, scouring the exhibition floor for the most exciting new vegan products set to hit the market in 2024.
Best New Products of 2024
From artisanal vegan cheese wheels to seaweed-based bacon, the future of plant-based food innovation is truly out of this world. Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout new vegan products that caught our attention at Natural Products Expo West:
- Tofurky is launching three new products at Expo West 2024.
- Pulmuone is debuting multiple new innovations at Expo West, including vegan dumplings, sauces, and dressings.
- TiNDLE Foods is introducing Barista Oat Milk and Stuffed Chicken as new products at the expo.
- Konscious Foods is unveiling three new products: Smoked Salmon, Kimbap Korean Veggie Rice Roll, and Salmon Avocado Roll.
- Mellody Foods is launching Spicy Habanero hot honey, the first plant-based hot honey in the market.
- Califia Farms is announcing Organic Plant-Based Almond Creamers at the event.
- Hodo Foods is expanding into dips with new flavors like Zesty Lemon, Sambal Sweet Chili, and Chili Crisp.
These are just a few of the exciting new vegan products that were showcased at Natural Products Expo West 2024, showcasing the continued growth and innovation in the plant-based food industry.
“It’s been extraordinary to watch the level of innovation year after year,” says VegNews publisher and co-founder Colleen Holland. “Our team tries thousands of new vegan products at the show so that we can share the absolute best with our readers.”
Indulgent Plant-Based Treats
Peanut Butter Cups Redefined
Peanut butter cups have been the darlings of the vegan candy aisle for years, with brands like Reese’s and Justin’s racking up awards for their plant-based iterations. But now, Harken Sweets is about to shake up the vegan dessert scene with its indulgent peanut butter cups that redefine the classic salty-sweet combo.
Harken Sweets’ trio of not-too-sweet bars feature a delightful array of decadent ingredients, from salted date caramel and light-as-air nougat to crunchy peanuts and crispy pretzel bits, all coated in rich oat milk chocolate. It’s a vegan reimagining of beloved candy bar classics like Snickers and Milky Way, but with a fraction of the calories and none of the added sugar – the sweetness comes entirely from those delicious dates.
What’s more, each bar packs a surprising nutritional punch, with more than five cups of kale’s worth of prebiotic fiber. So you can indulge your sweet tooth while feeling great about it. It’s the perfect balance of vegan candy, plant-based desserts, and vegan peanut butter cups that sweet tooths have been craving.
“Harken Sweets is coming to shake the table, and it just may be ready to give plant-based sweet tooths all the variety they’ve been craving.”
| Product | Year Founded | Plant-Based Innovation |
|---|---|---|
| Duke’s Mayo | 1917 | Launched a vegan version of its famous mayo made with potato protein instead of eggs. |
| Perry’s Ice Cream | 1918 | Introduced its “Oats Cream” line, a dairy-free series developed in collaboration with Elmhurst 1925. |
| Oscar Mayer | 1900 | Entered the plant-based market with NotHotDogs and NotSausages made with plant-based ingredients. |
| Kraft Heinz | 1903 | Recreated iconic products like Kraft Singles and Mac & Cheese using only plant-based ingredients. |
| The Laughing Cow | 1921 | Released an almond milk-based version and other plant-based cheese alternatives. |
| The Hershey Company | 1900 | Launched plant-based Hershey’s chocolate bars and redesigned Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups in a plant-based format. |
| Kellogg’s | 1906 | Launched the plant-based Pringles Original MorningStar Chick’n Fries and plant-based cream cheese from Philadelphia. |
| Oatly | 1995 | Partnered with Carvel to introduce non-dairy frozen treats at Carvel shops across the United States. |
The data shows that established food brands across the industry are rapidly embracing the vegan candy, plant-based desserts, and vegan peanut butter cups trend, bringing their iconic products to the plant-based market. This shift reflects the growing demand for indulgent, yet healthier, sweet treats that cater to the evolving preferences of today’s consumers.
Breakfast Innovations
Vegans rejoice! The plant-based breakfast revolution has arrived, and it’s more delicious and innovative than ever before. From seaweed-based bacon to creative egg alternatives, the latest vegan breakfast products are redefining the morning meal.
Take Umaro’s bacon-egg-and-cheese sandwich, for instance. This handheld delight features a Just Egg patty, melted cheddar cheese, and Umaro’s patented seaweed-based bacon. Not only is Umaro’s bacon crispy and fatty, just like its pork counterpart, but it’s also a more sustainable option. The red seaweed it’s made from grows quickly, is a great source of protein, requires no fertilizer or fresh water, and is a major absorber of greenhouse gases.
And Umaro isn’t the only player shaking up the vegan breakfast game. Francesca’s Little Shop of Bagels has launched their Wake-N-Bagel frozen vegan bagels, perfect for a quick and satisfying breakfast. Meanwhile, Bolani’s Plant-Based Kabob-Filled Flatbread, featuring Beyond Meat, offers a savory and filling option for those seeking a heartier start to the day.
With so many innovative vegan breakfast products hitting the market, it’s never been easier to enjoy a delicious, plant-based morning meal that’s good for you and the planet. Whether you’re craving a classic breakfast sandwich or something more unique, the options are endless. So, let’s embrace the future of vegan breakfast and explore all the delicious possibilities!
Savory Plant-Based Goodness
Cheese Sauce Without Cheese
Dairy lovers, prepare to be amazed! One of the creamiest, silkiest cheese sauces on the market today contains no dairy at all. And for vegans, the secret is out – it’s not made with nuts either. House Party’s Cheesy Dips are crafted primarily from carrots, potatoes, tomato paste, jalapeños, and nutritional yeast. That means our nacho boats, DIY crunchwraps, and extra-cheesy enchiladas are practically drowning in a serving of vegetables.
These dairy-free vegan cheese sauce alternatives are revolutionizing the way we enjoy our favorite comfort foods. With a rich, gooey texture and a flavor that hits all the right savory notes, these plant-based dips and sauces are a game-changer for anyone seeking a dairy-free cheese option.
| Product | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| House Party Cheesy Dips | $4.99 for 8 oz | A creamy, dairy-free cheese sauce made from vegetables and nutritional yeast |
| Trader Joe’s Vegan Spinach-and-Cashew Ravioli | $3.99 for 8.8 oz | Delicious plant-based ravioli filled with a savory spinach and cashew cheese mixture |
| Trader Joe’s Vegan Kale, Cashew, and Basil Pesto | $3.99 for 8 oz | A creamy, dairy-free pesto packed with nutrient-rich kale, cashews, and basil |
Whether you’re craving a comforting bowl of mac and cheese or looking to add some flavorful dip to your veggie platter, these innovative dairy-free cheese alternatives have you covered. Get ready to indulge in all the savory goodness without the guilt.
Indulgent Beverages
Buckle up, coffee lovers, because the world of vegan coffee creamers is about to get a whole lot more exciting. Califia Farms, the veteran alt-milk brand, is leading the charge with their latest limited-edition creation – an almond creamer infused with the irresistible flavors of big chocolate sandwich cookies. Imagine the possibilities: a cookies and cream cold brew that’s out of this world, a frappé blended to perfection, or even homemade scoops of ice cream that’ll have your taste buds doing somersaults.
But the fun doesn’t stop there. Why not try your hand at a decadent cookies and cream hot cocoa, where the rich, creamy goodness of the almond creamer meets the comforting warmth of your favorite plant-based milk? The options are endless, and the only limit is your imagination when it comes to these indulgent dairy-free beverage trends.
So, if you’re ready to elevate your coffee game and explore the world of plant-based lattes, head to your nearest Kroger or check out Califia Farms’ online store. Get ready to savor the flavors of your dreams and satisfy your cravings in the most delicious way possible.
| Brand | Product | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Califia Farms | Cookies & Creamer Limited Edition | Almond-based creamer infused with chocolate sandwich cookie flavor |
| Ben & Jerry’s | Non-Dairy Flavors | Continuously expanding their vegan ice cream range since 2016 |
| Daiya | Fire-Roasted Vegetable Pizza | Vegan mozzarella and vegetables on a delicious crust |
As the popularity of plant-based living continues to soar, the beverage industry is keeping pace with an ever-expanding array of dairy-free options. From creamy vegan coffee creamers to indulgent plant-based lattes, the options for satisfying our cravings without compromising our values have never been better.
The Rise of Mycelium
Mycelium, the protein-rich network of mushroom cells, is poised to revolutionize the plant-based meat industry in 2024. This sustainable alternative to traditional meat is already making waves, with innovative companies like MyForest Foods leading the charge.
MyForest Foods, based in upstate New York, has developed a mycelium-based bacon that is not only delicious but also environmentally friendly. The ingredient list is simple and straightforward – organic mushroom mycelium, coconut oil, sugar, natural flavor, and salt – but the flavor and texture are anything but. These chewy, crispy, and smoky strips are perfect for piling into BLTs, wrapping around hot dogs, or candying for Bloody Marys.
The rise of mycelium-based meat alternatives is not limited to just bacon. Companies like Meati, PLNT Burger, and The Better Meat Co. are all utilizing this versatile ingredient to create a wide range of sustainable protein sources, from whole-cut steaks and chicken breasts to deli-style slices and crispy cutlets.
- Meati, a Colorado-based company, has opened a $650 million production facility to meet the growing demand for their mushroom root-based products, which offer up to 60% protein content by weight.
- PLNT Burger has added mycelium-made vegan chicken to its menu, available at all 13 locations across the East Coast, with a 50% off BOGO deal and a $1 kickback toward future Meati items until the end of April.
- The Better Meat Co. recently hosted a mycelium-powered dinner in Sacramento, California, showcasing various dishes like mycoprotein bacon and fungi that mimic chicken breast.
As the demand for sustainable and plant-based protein sources continues to grow, mycelium is quickly becoming a go-to ingredient for food innovators and conscious consumers alike. With its impressive nutritional profile, versatility, and environmental benefits, the rise of mycelium is set to transform the way we think about meat alternatives in the years to come.
Conclusion
The data clearly shows that the plant-based food sector is experiencing exponential growth, with the global vegan food market expected to reach $1.4 trillion by 2050. Driven by the increasing popularity of vegan milk and meat alternatives, this remarkable projected growth is indicative of veganism’s promising future within the retail sector. As consumer demand for plant-based options continues to surge, retailers and brands are responding with a flood of innovative new vegan products that cater to evolving tastes and preferences.
From indulgent peanut butter cups to savory cheese sauces and breakfast sandwiches featuring sustainable seaweed bacon, the latest crop of vegan products showcases the creativity and versatility of the plant-based food landscape. With so many exciting new options hitting shelves, there has never been a better time for consumers to explore the world of plant-based eating. The summary of latest vegan product trends and the growing demand for plant-based foods suggest a bright future for the industry.
As more people become increasingly conscious of their environmental impact and seek out ethical, sustainable consumption choices, the demand for vegan products is poised to continue its upward trajectory. With innovative plant-based innovations and a heightened focus on reducing meat consumption, we can look forward to an ever-expanding array of delicious and nutritious vegan options that cater to a wide range of preferences and dietary needs.
FAQ
What is the current state of the plant-based food market?
According to the data, in 2022, global retail sales of plant-based meat products reached $6.1 billion, an 8% increase from the previous year. Additionally, the global vegan food market is projected to reach $1.4 trillion by 2050, driven by the increasing popularity of vegan milk and meat alternatives.
How are retailers and brands responding to the growing demand for plant-based options?
Retailers and brands are responding to the surge in consumer demand for plant-based options by introducing a flood of innovative new vegan products that cater to evolving tastes and preferences. These products can be found in major retailers across the country, including Whole Foods Market, Walmart, Kroger, and Target.
What were some of the highlights from Natural Products Expo West 2023?
At Natural Products Expo West 2023, VegNews editors discovered a wide range of exciting new vegan products, including indulgent peanut butter cups, savory cheese sauces without dairy, and breakfast sandwiches featuring sustainable seaweed-based bacon.
What are some of the latest trends in plant-based food innovations?
Recent trends in plant-based food innovations include the rise of mycelium-based meat alternatives, the continued growth of vegan milk and cheese products, and the development of indulgent plant-based treats like cookies and cream coffee creamers.
What is the future outlook for the plant-based food market?
The data indicates a promising future for the plant-based food market, with the global vegan food market expected to reach $1.4 trillion by 2050. This remarkable projected growth is driven by the increasing popularity of vegan milk and meat alternatives, which are poised to capture significant market share in the coming years.