Plant-based foods and beverages have experienced explosive growth over the last few years and show no signs of slowing down. But what is it that’s driving consumer uptake of these products? In North America, according to Kerry’s plant-based consumer study conducted last year, health and wellness concerns are propelling the phenomenal growth, while in the rest of the world sustainability is a top driver. Earlier this year, Kerry completed research across all product categories that showed that more than half of consumers are concerned about the safety of the plant-based meat and dairy alternatives they purchase.
The question is, exactly how worried is the public about the safety of plant-based products?