Tesco: a boom in plant-based products.
The past year has marked a significant turning point for the plant-based movement, with unprecedented growth in interest. According to a recent report by Tesco, the British retail giant, there has been a renewed passion for home cooking among plant-based consumers.
This shift towards preparing meals “from scratch” reflects the movement’s evolution, as consumers eagerly explore the versatility and culinary potential of plant-based ingredients.
Tesco and plant-based products: rising demand
Tesco’s report highlights substantial growth in the plant-based food sector, with demand for a wide range of meat-free products surging. Fish alternatives, in particular, saw a staggering 100% rise in the past three months, while tofu, tempeh, plant-based steaks, and “chicken breasts” recorded a solid 20% increase. Even meat-free burgers experienced a 10% uptick, underscoring a shift in consumer preferences towards healthier and more sustainable options.
Innovation has been a key driver behind this growth, with products like “Juicy Marbles” leading the way. This plant-based steak, which mimics the flavour and texture of beef, achieved remarkable success, selling 100,000 units in the run-up to Valentine’s Day. The product’s popularity highlights the increasing demand for high-quality plant-based alternatives.
The second phase of the plant-based revolution
Cate May, Tesco’s Head of Plant-Based Food Procurement, shared her thoughts on these emerging trends:
“Plant-based eating has been the most significant culinary trend of this century, attracting interest from a wide range of consumers. After an initial natural slowdown, we are now entering the second phase of this revolution, with flexitarians keen to take greater control over their diets as they continue to reduce their meat intake.”
These changes reflect a growing consumer desire to experiment with plant-based ingredients and explore new recipes and cooking techniques.
“Customers are beginning to understand the versatility of plant-based ingredients, creating a wide variety of meals—from tofu dishes and meat-free curries to classic steak and chips using plant-based alternatives,” May added.
Health and sustainability: key motivators
Beyond curiosity and culinary enjoyment, health and sustainability remain key drivers of the plant-based diet’s popularity. A related survey found that nearly half of respondents (46%) now eat more vegetables than they did five years ago, with 47% intentionally adding more plant-based foods to their meals. The main reasons cited include a desire for healthier eating, cost savings, and reducing environmental impact.
This shift has also brought an increase in the consumption of leafy greens, root vegetables, and salad items, even influencing traditional dishes like the Sunday roast, which is now enhanced with a wider variety of vegetables.
Tesco’s report not only highlights the growing interest and demand for plant-based foods in the UK but also points to a broader shift in consumer values and eating habits.
The trend towards plant-based eating, fuelled by health, sustainability, and culinary innovation, is poised to reshape the food landscape—with Tesco firmly at the forefront of this sustainable transformation.
Read also: Plant-Based Proteins on the Rise: Pea Protein Leading the Market
