With nearly one in two consumers across the globe now interested in plant-based foods and beverages, reducing dairy consumption is now well and truly on consumer agendas.
In fact, according to research on behalf of BENEO, more than three in ten consumers globally are choosing to limit their dairy consumption. Furthermore, approximately half buy alternatives to dairy (49 per cent), with almost 1 in 3 also buying plant-based sweets like chocolate (32 per cent).
However, there is room for more growth amongst flexitarian consumers, with an additional third interested in buying dairy alternatives in the future and 42 per cent wanting to explore sweets alternatives.
As flexitarians are a key target group for manufacturers of plant-based products, it is important to know what is driving their purchasing in order to effectively tap into this trend with alternative dairy solutions. BENEO’s consumer survey revealed that the top drivers for flexitarian purchasing for dairy alternatives include being healthy and helping them take care of their body (49 per cent), being natural (44 per cent)), as well as supporting a well-balanced diet (44 per cent).
Delivering a better nutritional profile is therefore crucial and brands need to build their ‘better-for-you’ credentials to convince flexitarians across the globe.
Not surprisingly, offering a pleasant taste and texture is also a key driver to repeat purchase. Almost half of global flexitarians (46 per cent) pay attention to these aspects when shopping for plant-based dairy alternatives and almost three in four (73 per cent) find it (very) important that these products have a similar full-bodied mouthfeel like products containing dairy.
After learning all of these above statistics and trends, enter BENEO’s delicious dairy-free cocoa dessert! A delightful application possibility that showcases the power of faba bean protein, all while ticking off the above needs of today’s consumers. The indulgent treat proves that dairy alternatives can offer a desired taste, texture and nutrition.
Download the in-depth paper and discover how faba bean protein can elevate your next dairy alternative innovation.
For further information on BENEO and its ingredients, please visit: www.beneo.com and www.beneo.com/news