Nourishing the Now

Changing consumer preferences and growing environmental awareness have sparked a profound transformation in the food industry. Businesses are increasingly embracing sustainable sourcing practices to reduce their ecological footprint. Here are some key trends:

• Plant-Based Proteins: Over 3% of new food product launches globally now carry a plant-based claim. Consumers are open to trying alternative ingredients that promote a more sustainable diet.
• Clean Label Movement: Approximately 63% of consumers globally prefer clean labels over flexible ones. This trend emphasises transparency, natural ingredients, and ethical sourcing.
• Environmental Impact: The production of plant-based foods is more environmentally friendly than animal-derived counterparts. As businesses adopt sustainable practices, they contribute to a greener future.

Statistics on Sustainable Sourcing

• Global food production is projected to reach $4.4 trillion by 2026, with a year-on-year growth rate of 1.1%.
• Symrise reports that 39% of Europeans purchase vegetarian and vegan food, while 38% of US consumers incorporate more plant-based options into their diets.

The Clean Label Revolution

Consumers demand transparency in their food choices. Clean-label ingredients are free from artificial additives, preservatives, and other undesirable components. Here’s what’s happening:

• Growing Preference: 63% of consumers globally prefer clean labels. Seasonings lead the clean label trend, growing at more than double the pace of the general market.
• Health-Conscious Consumers: A recent study revealed that a majority of US restaurant guests are willing to pay at least 10% more for sustainable meals. Younger generations are willing to pay up to 20% more for clean-label items.

Statistics on Clean Label Ingredients

• Clean label market growth: 5% per year (2017-2022 CAGR).
• Top clean label claims: ‘no additives or preservatives’ (15%), ‘organic’ (10%), and environmental claims (8%).

The Power of Plants

Plant-based foods are gaining traction due to health, ethical, and environmental reasons. Businesses are innovating to create delicious alternatives. Here’s what you need to know:

• Alternative Proteins: Consumers plan to buy plant-based meat substitutes, with millennials leading the charge at 48%.
• Precision Fermentation: Researchers and the food industry are developing alternative milk, cheese, meat, and egg products from various plant-based sources using technologies like precision fermentation and extrusion.

• Over 3% of new food product launches globally have a plant-based claim.
• Investing in plant-based foods now can lead to large-scale consumption of sustainable and healthy diets in the near future.

Adapting to the Trends

To stay competitive, businesses can source responsibly, prioritising sustainable ingredients and transparent supply chains. Innovate, by developing clean-label products and exploring plant-based alternatives. Educate Consumers by highlighting the benefits of sustainable and health-conscious choices.

Remember, the future of food lies in conscious decisions that nourish both people and the planet!

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