70 Percent of Consumers Worldwide Are Cutting Back on Meat and Embracing Veggies!

Meat is quickly losing favor with consumers. In the United States, the annual per capita consumption of red meat has dropped by 15 percent within the past 10 years. Today, about 30 percent of consumers identify as flexitarian, or people who choose to leave meat off their plate more frequently. But this change is happening in more than just the United States. According to a recent study by data and insights firm GlobalData, 70 percent of global consumers are cutting back on meat or avoiding it altogether.

GlobalData’s study revealed more than just the fact that people are consciously avoiding meat — the way they view vegetables and protein are changing, too. According to Nicole Peranick, the director of culinary thought leadership at global retail strategy and service company Daymon, “Thanks to a new focus on flavor, innovative, and exotic vegetable dishes are emerging to dial up craveability.”

What does this mean? Peranick highlights prepackaged cauliflower steak and vegetable noodles, as examples of new, unique ways that retailers are showing consumers how these vegetables, that have often been pushed to the side of our plate, can, in fact, be the focus of our meals. On top of that, more retailers now offer prepackaged plant-based meals that make leaving meat off one’s plate more convenient.

Peranick also highlights how the way we view protein is changing, with increased offerings for plant-based proteins such as pea, hemp, chia, and flax as a cleaner alternative to whey in the space.

GlobalData’s report is just another study that shows the future of food is plant-based. As a result of the growing consumer concern for their health, the health of the planet, and animal welfare, we are seeing a steady decline in the consumption of meat and dairy. As more people choose to leave meat off their plate, consumers are seeking out healthier plant-based meat alternatives and vegetable-centric dishes and retailers are catching on to those trends with innovative, prepackaged options that present vegetables as more than just a side dish.

It’s exciting to hear a global retail strategy and service company encourage retailers to consider expanding their plant-based options, but if you love to cook from home, we highly recommend checking out the Food Monster App. The app  is available for both Android and iPhone. With over 8,000 vegan recipes (and over 10 new recipes added daily), you’re going to find something you love!

Lead image source: Spicy Coconut Milk Cauliflower Steaks