Plant-Based Options Continue to Expand Across Menus
Plant-based items that mimic traditional proteins continue to be popular and, in a 2022 U.S.-based study conducted by Technomic, 34% of consumers say they plan to purchase alternative proteins more frequently in the next year.*
But consumers also feel that there is too much “sameness” in the plant-based products that are offered away from home (e.g., another traditional burger?). In fact, 66% of U.S. consumers agreed they would like to see a wider variety of menu items that use alternative proteins.*
Simply put, operators need to get more creative with ingredients in order to stand out from the crowd. Luckily, mainstream plant-based dairy ingredients and proteins can easily be swapped into favourite menu items or customized with an operator’s signature flavours for more unique applications that provide the variety consumers demand.
For example, plant-based proteins can be used on pizza, in tacos or on top of nachos and loaded fries. Or, if you have a traditional burger, consider whether there is a flavour swap (e.g., special sauce or combinations of toppings) that can elevate your offering beyond those of your competitors.
