leading plant based and vegan food trends

Plant-based and vegan food trends have been rapidly evolving, driven by increasing consumer awareness about health, environmental sustainability, and animal welfare. Innovations in plant-based meat alternatives, dairy-free products, and nutrient-dense superfoods are at the forefront of this movement.

Advertisement

The rise of plant-based meat alternatives, such as those from Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods, has revolutionized the vegan market, providing consumers with tasty, protein-rich options that closely mimic the texture and flavor of traditional meats. Dairy-free products are also gaining traction, with almond, oat, and soy milk leading the way, followed by innovations in vegan cheeses and yogurts. Additionally, there is a growing interest in nutrient-dense superfoods like quinoa, chia seeds, and spirulina, which are being incorporated into a variety of vegan-friendly dishes. Restaurants and food service industries are increasingly offering plant-based menu options, making it easier for consumers to adopt and maintain a vegan lifestyle. This trend is further supported by advancements in food technology and the growing availability of plant-based ingredients, which are helping to create more diverse and appealing vegan products.

  • Beyond Meat
    Beyond Meat

    Beyond Meat - Plant-based meat alternatives for a sustainable future.

    View All
  • Impossible Foods
    Impossible Foods

    Impossible Foods - Plant-based meat alternatives for sustainable food consumption.

    View All
  • Oatly
    Oatly

    Oatly - Oatly: Plant-based, sustainable oat milk and dairy alternatives.

    View All
  • Tofurky
    Tofurky

    Tofurky - Plant-based meat alternatives and vegan products.

    View All
  • Gardein
    Gardein

    Gardein - Plant-based, meatless food products for vegans and vegetarians.

    View All
  • Daiya
    Daiya

    Daiya - Daiya: Plant-based, dairy-free cheese and alternative products.

    View All
  • JUST Egg
    JUST Egg

    JUST Egg - Plant-based egg alternative made from mung beans.

    View All
  • Miyoko's Creamery
    Miyoko's Creamery

    Miyoko's Creamery - Pioneering plant-based dairy alternatives with artisanal quality.

    View All
  • Follow Your Heart
    Follow Your Heart

    Follow Your Heart - Plant-based, vegan-friendly food products and ingredients.

    View All
  • Lightlife
    Lightlife

    Lightlife - Lightlife: Plant-based foods promoting sustainable and healthy eating.

    View All

leading plant based and vegan food trends

1.

Beyond Meat

less
Beyond Meat is a pioneering plant-based food company focused on creating meat alternatives that emulate the taste and texture of animal-based products. Founded in 2009, the company aims to address health, environmental, and animal welfare concerns by offering products like burgers, sausages, and ground meat made primarily from pea protein and other plant ingredients. Beyond Meat's mission is to make plant-based eating accessible, enjoyable, and sustainable for a broad audience.

Pros

  • pros plant-based
  • pros high protein
  • pros eco-friendly
  • pros no cholesterol
  • pros widely available

Cons

  • consprocessed ingredients
  • cons higher price
  • cons taste varies
  • cons potential allergens
  • cons limited textures

2.

Impossible Foods

less
Impossible Foods is a pioneering food technology company founded in 2011, dedicated to creating plant-based alternatives to meat. Renowned for its flagship product, the Impossible Burger, the company uses innovative science to replicate the taste, texture, and nutritional benefits of meat while aiming to reduce the environmental impact of animal agriculture. By leveraging plant ingredients like soy and heme, Impossible Foods offers sustainable, delicious options that cater to both meat lovers and environmentally conscious consumers.

Pros

  • pros Innovative plant-based products
  • pros Environmentally friendly
  • pros High nutritional value
  • pros Widely available
  • pros Good taste and texture.

Cons

  • consExpensive
  • cons Not fully organic
  • cons Processed ingredients
  • cons Potential allergen risk
  • cons Limited product variety.

3.

Oatly

less
Oatly is a Swedish company specializing in oat-based dairy alternatives. Founded in the 1990s, it focuses on sustainability and plant-based nutrition, offering products such as oat milk, yogurt, and ice cream. Oatly emphasizes eco-friendly practices, claiming its products have a lower environmental impact compared to traditional dairy. The brand is known for its quirky, bold marketing and commitment to transparency, aiming to promote healthier, more sustainable food choices globally.

Pros

  • pros plant-based
  • pros lactose-free
  • pros eco-friendly
  • pros high in fiber
  • pros versatile.

Cons

  • consexpensive
  • cons contains added sugars
  • cons not widely available
  • cons potential allergens
  • cons limited shelf life.

4.

Tofurky

less
Tofurky is a renowned American brand specializing in plant-based meat alternatives. Founded in 1980 by Seth Tibbott, the company is best known for its Tofurky Roast, a popular vegan substitute for turkey, especially during holidays. Tofurky offers a wide range of products, including deli slices, sausages, and tempeh, all aimed at providing delicious, sustainable, and cruelty-free options for vegetarians and vegans. The brand emphasizes high-quality ingredients and innovation in the plant-based food market.

Pros

  • pros plant-based protein
  • pros widely available
  • pros variety of products
  • pros non-GMO
  • pros good taste.

Cons

  • consprocessed ingredients
  • cons higher price
  • cons not soy-free
  • cons potential allergens
  • cons may not mimic meat texture perfectly.

5.

Gardein

less
Gardein is a popular brand specializing in plant-based meat alternatives, offering a wide range of products such as meatless burgers, chicken tenders, and fishless fillets. Known for their high-quality, non-GMO ingredients, Gardein products are designed to replicate the taste and texture of meat while being healthier and more sustainable. Catering to vegetarians, vegans, and flexitarians, Gardein aims to provide delicious and convenient options that make it easy to reduce meat consumption.

Pros

  • pros widely available
  • pros plant-based
  • pros variety of products
  • pros good taste
  • pros non-GMO

Cons

  • consprocessed ingredients
  • cons higher sodium
  • cons expensive
  • cons not allergen-free
  • cons packaging waste

6.

Daiya

less
Daiya is a leading brand specializing in plant-based foods, renowned for its dairy-free cheese alternatives. Founded in 2008, the company offers a range of products including cheese shreds, slices, blocks, and cream cheese spreads, catering to those with dietary restrictions or preferences. Daiya's products are free from common allergens such as dairy, gluten, and soy, making them a popular choice for vegans and individuals with food sensitivities. The brand is committed to sustainability and promoting a healthier lifestyle.

Pros

  • pros Dairy-free
  • pros Vegan-friendly
  • pros Gluten-free
  • pros Wide variety
  • pros Readily available

Cons

  • consTaste varies
  • cons High in sodium
  • cons Pricey
  • cons Not organic
  • cons Processed ingredients

7.

JUST Egg

less
JUST Egg is a plant-based egg alternative created by Eat Just, Inc. Made from mung bean protein, it mimics the texture and taste of traditional eggs while being cholesterol-free and environmentally sustainable. Ideal for scrambles, omelets, and baking, it caters to vegans, those with egg allergies, and environmentally conscious consumers. JUST Egg aims to revolutionize the food industry by providing a healthier and more sustainable protein source.

Pros

  • pros Plant-based
  • pros Cholesterol-free
  • pros Protein-rich
  • pros Versatile
  • pros Environmentally-friendly

Cons

  • consPricey
  • cons May contain allergens
  • cons Processed
  • cons Limited availability
  • cons Taste may vary

8.

Miyoko's Creamery

less
Miyoko's Creamery is a pioneering plant-based dairy company founded by Miyoko Schinner. Renowned for its high-quality, artisanal vegan cheeses and butter, Miyoko's combines traditional creamery techniques with natural, plant-based ingredients. Committed to sustainability and animal welfare, the brand offers a delicious, ethical alternative to conventional dairy products. With a focus on innovation and flavor, Miyoko's Creamery aims to revolutionize the food industry and inspire a global shift towards more compassionate eating practices.

Pros

  • pros Vegan-friendly
  • pros Organic ingredients
  • pros Innovative flavors
  • pros Sustainable packaging
  • pros High-quality taste

Cons

  • consHigher price point
  • cons Limited availability
  • cons Short shelf life
  • cons Requires refrigeration
  • cons Not nut-allergy friendly

9.

Follow Your Heart

less
Follow Your Heart is a pioneering brand in the plant-based food industry, committed to creating delicious and sustainable alternatives to traditional animal products. Founded in 1970, the brand is best known for its Vegenaise, a vegan mayonnaise, and a range of dairy-free cheeses, dressings, and other plant-based products. Follow Your Heart emphasizes quality, health, and environmental responsibility, aiming to provide innovative and flavorful options for those pursuing a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle.

Pros

  • pros vegan-friendly
  • pros high-quality ingredients
  • pros innovative products
  • pros wide availability
  • pros eco-conscious packaging

Cons

  • conshigher price point
  • cons limited flavors
  • cons not widely available globally
  • cons shorter shelf life
  • cons potential allergen concerns

10.

Lightlife

less
Lightlife is a well-established brand known for its plant-based food products. Founded in 1979, the company offers a variety of meat alternatives, including tempeh, sausages, burgers, and deli slices, all crafted from non-GMO, simple ingredients. Lightlife aims to provide nutritious, sustainable, and delicious options for those seeking to reduce their meat consumption or follow a vegetarian or vegan diet. The brand is committed to environmental responsibility and promoting a healthier lifestyle.

Pros

  • pros Plant-based
  • pros Non-GMO
  • pros High protein
  • pros Variety of products
  • pros Convenient

Cons

  • consCan be pricey
  • cons Not always available
  • cons Mixed taste reviews
  • cons Processed ingredients
  • cons May contain allergens

Similar Topic You Might Be Interested In