DuPont Nutrition & Biosciences has identified that most consumers in South America want to add more vegetable protein to their diets.
It is not news that people from all over the world and from all generations are seeking healthier eating habits, being more aware of the impacts of this habit on their own well-being and health, and on the planet. This effort shows an increased interest in consuming more plant-based foods and beverages.
On the so-called flexitarian consumers lies a huge market opportunity. Flexitarians are people who are reducing their meat consumption, but without fully giving up on animal protein, and adding more vegetables and grains to their diet.
A recent research conducted by DuPont N&B shows that the higher consumption of plant-based products is a global trend: more than 70% of the people in the surveyed countries1 are increasing their plant-based product intake. Health is the major factor driving consumers towards consumption of meat alternatives followed by animal welfare.
When consumers were asked about their interest in plant proteins2, 67% of Brazilians said they were interested. Colombia and Argentina also showed high ratings, with 78% and 65%, respectively.
Texture, appearance and, especially, taste as close as possible to the meat product is paramount for these consumers. In general, they are also more prone to accepting processed foods than vegetarian and vegan groups. The millennial generation leads the pursuit of this type of diet and are the major drivers of this trend. Their favourite categories are “hamburgers” and ready-to-eat vegetable protein dishes.
“This trend is a huge market opportunity as flexitarian consumer want to increase their consumption of plant-based foods without giving up taste, texture, juiciness, bite sensation and appearance. They want to eat plant-based foods that perfectly mimic the traditional hamburger, nuggets and ready-to-eat dishes such as pasta in bolognese sauce or meatballs,” said Glauco R. Pinto, Marketing Lead for South America, DuPont Nutrition & Biosciences.
In a 2019 MotiveQuest analysis of 3 million internet conversations focused on plant-based eating (in the US), taste and texture surfaced as key factors for enjoying meat alternative products. And this is valid for South America as well. Meat-like taste, texture, and appearance is crucial for these consumers. 82% of respondents in a Markets and Markets survey in Brazil3 expressed the same wishes as American consumers.
“In recent years DuPont N&B has expanded its portfolio to meet this demand and has been investing in numerous global and regional surveys to deeply understand consumer desires for plant-based foods. We identified consumer preferences and found out their favourite consumption choices and the reasons behind these purchases. Today we know the gaps that still exist in this market and what meat alternatives will be consumers' next choices,” adds Glauco.
DuPont Nutrition & Biosciences has a comprehensive portfolio of ingredients and decades of experience in research and development of vegetable-protein products specifically related to meat alternatives. DuPont specialists can help food manufactures perfectly recreate the consumer experience of eating meat with 100% vegetable foods. Using innovative technologies, ingredients and processes, you can recreate the same texture, taste and juiciness in different presentation formats, from traditional fast-food products to ready-to-eat dishes like bolognese lasagna.
For a complete listing of plant proteins and novel ingredient systems for binding/structure, sensory, shelf life and color, go to www.food.dupont.com/meat-alternatives.html.
About DuPont™ Danisco®
DuPont™ Danisco® is the brand for a range of products that help provide enhanced bioprotection, an improved nutritional profile, and better taste and texture with greater cost efficiency and lower environmental impact, meeting the needs of manufacturers of food and beverages and dietary supplements. Through the work of the global network of food scientists and technologists in DuPont, the Danisco® range is supported by a uniquely broad spectrum of know-how across applications and processing.
About DuPont Nutrition & Biosciences
DuPont Nutrition & Biosciences applies expert science to advance market-driven, healthy and sustainable solutions for the food, beverage, dietary supplement and pharmaceutical industries. We also use cutting-edge biotechnology across a range of markets to advance bio-based solutions to meet the needs of a growing population, while protecting our environment for future generations. We are innovative solvers who help our customers turn challenges into high-value business opportunities. For more information: www.dupontnutritionandbiosciences.com or www.biosciences.dupont.com.
About DuPont
DuPont (NYSE: DD) is a global innovation leader with technology-based materials, ingredients and solutions that help transform industries and everyday life. Our employees apply diverse science and expertise to help customers advance their best ideas and deliver essential innovations in key markets including electronics, transportation, construction, water, health and wellness, food, and worker safety. More information can be found at www.dupont.com.
