A new report has revealed plant-based eating is becoming increasingly popular across Australia and New Zealand, with 68% of Aussies and 67% of Kiwis having tried plant-based products. This trend is driven by a combination of health concerns, environmental awareness, and curiosity about new food options with cost 'way down' the list.
The Future Food Report interviewed 2000 thousand people asking them about their plant-based experiences from milks through to analogue chicken and pork flavoured meat products.
The report highlights a significant portion of these consumers are not necessarily vegetarian or vegan with many identifying as flexitarians, incorporating plant-based foods alongside traditional diets.
In both countries, plant-based dairy products, particularly milk, have seen substantial growth, mirroring a broader shift towards healthier and more sustainable food choices. But this appears not to have translated into analog meats forinstance.
The report says this rising interest in plant-based options is not just a passing trend but reflects deeper consumer motivations. Many are drawn to these products for their perceived health benefits, their potential to reduce environmental impact, and, in many cases, simply because they enjoy the taste. Surprisingly the Toluna report reveals limited concern over cost.
Source: Toluna
However recent plant-based business closures in New Zealand don't reflect the reports findings when measured against FMCG customer demand and realisable 'shelf support' from supermarket chains. The chain's final measurement is stock turn and healthy margins. The question to ask here then is : 'Has the reality of plant-based products as an alternative to eating meat reached its zenith in New Zealand due largely to the small market size and the depth of the traditional depth of the meat eating culture?'
Source: PFN Ai Archive - depiction of vegan plant-based meal with all the trimmings.
It's hoped the demand for plant-based foods continues to grow as a result of simple 'consumer exploration', and if this report holds true then the transformation of the Australian and New Zealand food system and trend towards more conscious eating surely will continue.
Only time will tell.
To download the full report CLICK HERE
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