In a recent blind taste test involving 1,192 omnivores and flexitarians, products containing a 50/50 blend of animal and plant ingredients emerged as the most appealing option.
According to a report by Nectar, the research division of Food System Innovations, 74% of participants said they were “extremely interested” or “interested” in the plant-rich meat category.
Source: 50/50 Foods Hybrid Burger
The 215-page report, titled Future of the Industry: Plant-Rich Meat, analysed feedback from participants who evaluated 22 plant-rich products, such as burgers, sausages, and chicken nuggets. The results showed in six out of eight categories, plant-rich products outperformed fully plant-based options, with sustainability and health cited as key reasons for consumer interest.
“We're showing that consumers can enjoy the taste they love while also making choices that benefit their health and the climate,” says Caroline Cotto, Nectar's director.
The report highlights that plant-rich meats are gaining traction in both retail and foodservice outlets. Major companies like 50/50 Foods and Australia's Fable Foods are leading the charge, with their plant-rich burgers earning high marks.
Fables latest product is a Shiitake Infusion, intended to mix with animal beef mince and has been under development for two years. Fable says the majority of customers do not strictly adhere to a vegan diet but prefer a more adaptable approach, hence the creation of this hybrid product.
Source: Fable Foods - Hybrid plant-based and animal meat balls
This shift indicates that plant-rich products may succeed where fully plant-based options have struggled, encouraging consumers to reduce their meat intake without sacrificing taste.
As interest in hybrid products grows, experts believe continued innovation and marketing will be key to driving acceptance and sales in this emerging category.
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