Mapping the price differences between animal products and plant-based substitutes in retail suggests the cheapest animal products are now more expensive than their cheapest plant-based counterparts.
Baker Perkins has developed a twin-screw extrusion technology to process high moisture fibrated TVP (Texturised Vegetable Protein), which is commonly used as meat substitute.
The science is clear: a vegetarian diet is better for heart health, a study says - but does that include processed meat analogues? "While not as healthful as whole plants, they are useful transition foods," says one researcher.
Sales of meat substitutes are in rude health, but the arrival of the US plant-based patty could provide a further boost for innovation, says David Burrows.
Students at the University of Udine in Italy have developed a product with the appearance and characteristics of a hard-boiled hen egg that is made entirely from plant-based ingredients.
One size does not fit all when marketing meat alternatives, say researchers. Manufacturers need to decide whether they should target price conscious consumers, healthy eaters, taste driven individuals, eco-friendly greens, organic shoppers or vegetarians.
Heightened health concerns over the consumption of meat as well as increased environmental awareness are likely to fuel the growth of the global meat substitutes market to over $4 billion (€3.57 billion) by next year, according to market analysts.
Meat reduction and vegetarianism is a growing trend among German consumers – and one in five young people buys meat alternatives, according to new research from Mintel.
Consumer acceptance of meat analogues can be increased through repeated exposures to products containing substitute meat proteins, but industry must work to improve quality and establish initial positive experiences, say researchers.
Solbar claims the latest addition to its textured vegetable protein range can copy almost any red meat, poultry, fish or sea food for vegetarian applications or can be used to add texture and cost benefits to actual meat products.
