08.07.2024

Vegan Food Market Size, Industry Share | Forecast

Vegan Food Market Size, Industry Share | Forecast

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The global vegan food market is on a promising growth trajectory, driven by the increasing adoption of veganism as a lifestyle movement. This trend is fueled by rising health consciousness, environmental concerns, and the growing prevalence of chronic diseases. The report delves into the multiple facets of the vegan food market, offering valuable insights that aid in understanding market growth during the forecast period.

Key Report Findings:

  • Vegan food market receives strong tailwinds from rising accessibility of non-dairy alternatives.
  • Adoption of healthier lifestyles to fuel opportunities in vegan food industry.
  • Crucial market growth role – methane emissions increased by 50% (1961-2018).
  • Nearly 65% of the global population is lactose intolerant.
  • North America to retain its dominant positioning in vegan food market.

Growth Drivers

Increasing Adoption of a Vegan Lifestyle

The shift towards sedentary lifestyles has led to a rise in health complications such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disorders. This has driven the consumption of healthy, nutrition-rich food that promotes effective weight management. More consumers are now switching to vegan food owing to its numerous health benefits. Vegan food helps lower fat content, reduce weight, enhance blood flow, and provide essential minerals and vitamins needed for cell development. It is widely believed that vegans have a higher life expectancy compared to those on a meat-based diet. Vegan food also regulates body metabolism, enhancing immunity. With these benefits in mind, the consumption of vegan food is expected to increase, bolstering the growth of the global vegan food market.

GHG Emissions by Animal-based Products under Scrutiny

The curbing of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from dairy and meat livestock has become a significant concern. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (UN FAO), methane emissions from livestock increased by 50% between 1961-2018. This is likely to grow further due to the demand for animal-based products. By adopting veganism, animal exploitation is prevented, and GHG emissions are significantly reduced, supporting environmental wellbeing. These factors are expected to have a major influence on the vegan food market in the coming years.

Vegan Milk Grows Popular Among Lactose Intolerant Population

The demand for dairy product alternatives has been rising globally, mainly due to a growing lactose intolerant population. According to the National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), about 65% of the global population is lactose intolerant. This has led to an exponential increase in the consumption of dairy alternatives like vegan milk, derived from oats, soy, almonds, among other sources. Health-conscious individuals are also opting for vegan milk due to its benefits such as weight management, adequate nutritional value, and overall body maintenance. This increasing demand for vegan milk is expected to significantly contribute to the market value of the vegan food industry.

Growth Challenges

Expensive Costs and Potential Nutritional Deficiencies

The relatively short commercial lifespan of the vegan food industry necessitates more research and development to create products with greater mass appeal. Currently, the pricing of vegan products is higher than conventional consumables, and taste and texture differ significantly. This has slowed the adoption of vegan food among many consumers. Additionally, vegan food products can be nutritionally deficient, with low protein content, leading to disorders such as hormonal imbalance, anemia, and vitamin B12 deficiency. These factors could potentially hinder the growth prospects of the global vegan food market.

COVID-19 Impact

The COVID-19 pandemic led to restrictions on movement and goods, hampering the supply of raw materials and causing operational hurdles. This resulted in a significant decline in revenue for many industries, including the global vegan food industry. However, as restrictions were gradually relaxed, the vegan food market returned to its pre-pandemic state, with projections of exponential growth over a short period.

Growth Opportunities Across Regions

North America to Flex Dominance

North America is expected to hold the majority share of the global vegan food market during the forecast period. This can be attributed to the higher adoption rate of vegan products and a greater awareness of the benefits of a vegan lifestyle. According to the Vegetarian Resource Group (VRG), more than 2% of the overall population in the United States is vegan, and this number is expected to grow. Increasing GDP per capita in this region is also expected to fuel the consumption of vegan food despite its higher pricing.

Asia Pacific to Index Significant Growth

The Asia Pacific region is expected to register significant growth in the coming years. According to the UN FAO, the lowest meat consumption globally has been observed in India. In 2020, out of approximately 500 million vegetarians, around 1% were vegans, and this trend is rapidly growing. These factors are expected to generate significant opportunities for industry players, further fueling the growth of the global vegan food market.

Competitive Landscape

Key players in the vegan food market include DANONE S.A., Archer Daniels Midland Company, Conagra Inc., Axiom Foods Inc., Beyond Meat, Alpro, Tofutti Brands Inc., and Kellogg Company. To gain a competitive edge, established industry players are focusing on new product launches, partnerships, collaborations, acquisitions, and alliances.

Recent Notable Developments:

  • In February 2021, Danone S.A. acquired Follow Your Heart, a plant-based pioneer, for US$6 million to improve its capabilities in developing and launching novel vegan products.
  • In May 2021, Target launched Good & Gather, a new plant-based sub-brand, offering a portfolio of 30 plant-based products.
  • In May 2021, Nestle launched Wunda, a new vegan milk brand, specifically in Portugal, the Netherlands, and France.
  • In July 2021, Upfield launched Violife, a new vegan cheese brand in the Middle East, available in slices, cubes, and grated forms, in Cheddar and Mozzarella flavors.

Regional Classification:

  • North America: U.S., Canada
  • Europe: Germany, France, Spain, U.K., Italy, Russia, Rest of Europe
  • Asia Pacific: China, Japan, India, Southeast Asia, Rest of Asia Pacific
  • Latin America: Brazil, Mexico, Rest of Latin America
  • Middle East and Africa: GCC, South Africa, Rest of Middle East & Africa
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