Nielsen Finds 40% Increase in Consumption of Plant-Based Foods

A recent survey performed by Nielsen, a leading market research company, says that plant-based food sales are continuing to thrive as they now account for 20% of food and beverage dollars spent by Americans.

Whether it’s due to a change in ethics, a concern for health, or the environment, 39%, found in a study last year, of Americans are now trying to eat more plant foods. It does not seem like this trend is going to plateau, as Nielsen states that the desire for plant-based options will only continue to grow. In fact, countless brands and retailers are starting to capitalize on this growing market by creating new options for their plant-based consumers.

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The most innovative plant-based food options are doing the best in the market as of now, specifically vegan dairy and meat products. Non-dairy alternatives sales are skyrocketing with a 45% sales increase over the last year. Almond milk, in particular, is holding the most prominent spot in the plant-based market right now with a continued growth rate of 8.2% combined over the course of 3 years.

Meat alternatives are also making headway, especially after the creation of the Beyond Burger. Although these meat alternatives are most commonly found in the frozen foods section, CEO Ethan Brown, wishes to put these vegan burgers in the meat case which would up the purchase volume. The notorious Beyond Burger has just begun to make its way into the meat case at most Whole Foods, and it’s estimated that approximately 70% of their customers are meat eaters!

As the need for plant-based food continues to grow, vegan options will be popping up among retailers and brands.

New to a plant-based lifestyle?

If you are just beginning your plant-based journey, and are looking for some delicious meat and dairy alternatives, experiment with these recipes from our Food Monster App.

Country ‘Meatloaf’ with Gravy

This meatloaf is savory and warming, but made with tempeh and veggies instead of beef! It is then spread with a thyme-infused gravy that compliments it perfectly.

Margherita Pizza with Fresh Basil Pesto and Mozzarella

Looking for a cheesy, vegan pizza? This Margherita pizza is topped with homemade cashew mozzarella, zesty basil pesto, savory tomato sauce, and thinly sliced fresh tomatoes. It is perfect for new or old plant-based foodies!

Soft Tacos with Walnut Meat

Walnuts make for an excellent meat alternative in this soft taco recipe. The walnuts are seasoned with lots of cumin and coriander and processed until they reach a meat-like consistency, and then the tacos are dolloped with mashed avocado, fresh cilantro, crisp lettuce, and a homemade dairy-free sour cream.

To learn more about dairy alternatives, we recommend downloading our Food Monster App, which is available for both Android and iPhone and can also be found on Instagram and Facebook. The app has more than 10,000 plant-based, allergy-friendly recipes, and subscribers gain access to new recipes every day. Check it out!

Lead image source: Shutterstock