A new report from 84.51° and the Plant Based Foods Association informs how plant-based offerings can be improved for consumers.
The report found consumers overwhelmingly like health benefits the most about plant-based foods but price and texture/consistency continue to hold back some consumers from purchasing organics.
Across the four major age brackets, health benefits were overwhelmingly what consumers said they liked most about plant-based foods, including meats, milks and cheeses. Consumers under 44-years-old disliked the consistency/texture of many plant-based foods, and consumers between the ages of 25 and 34 most disliked the high price of many items.
Consumers who were between the ages of 55 and 64 said they believed plant-based foods were “too processed” or had “too much sodium.” More than half (54%) of those surveyed said they agreed that plant-based foods still have hidden unhealthy ingredients despite being healthier overall.
The report did find three areas where consumers felt improvements could be made. Consumers said they would like more bold flavors, pre-made meals, and advancements in cheese.
In the report, consumers stating that they are unhappy with the taste and texture of plant-based cheese. More than 70% of those surveyed said they wished there were a better non-dairy cheese alternative that “tasted like regular cheese, melted well, and didn't have a grainy texture."
Kroger’s retail data firm and PBFA surveyed 60 million households in the top 50% of plant-based spend across age groups to field the insights for its Unmet Needs: Insights & Solutions report.