HEALTHY UPDATE And while the government continues to battle issues from an
unhealthy population to the impact of food production on the environment and there will always be a need to drive the economy forward, the plant-based industry could argue that not enough is being done to reduce subsidies to the meat and dairy industries or invest in plant-based alternatives. The sector itself now has a significant role to play in providing solutions to these problems. “Uniting the Plant-Based Industry to Lobby for Growth,” run by the Plant Based Food Alliance UK will take place at Plant Based World Expo Europe’s conference in November to help address this issue.
THE RISE OF AFFORDABLE PROTEINS In response to the cost-of-living crisis, in the UK, we will start to see a shift to more affordable plant proteins. Aberystwyth University has recently announced a new £1m pea protein project to reduce the UK’s reliance on soya imports, and at Plant Based World Expo, Europe’s leading companies will be showcasing affordable protein solutions, including textured pea and fava proteins that don’t compromise on food affordability, taste, texture or appearance.
PUBLIC SECTOR CAMPAIGNS FOR PLANT-BASED MEALS The Plant Based Universities campaign is active in more than 50 universities and is gaining momentum. We can expect to see more universities and education settings acting on their own climate research to both limit the public sector’s contribution to the climate and ecological emergency, and to help shift public opinion in favour of a plant-based food system. We can also expect more of the public sector to opt for plant-based menus, as healthcare, prisons and the care sector realise the benefits of providing fewer animal-based meals. By adopting plant-based options, hospitals can improve health outcomes for patients while reducing their carbon emissions.
THE GOVERNMENT MUST ACT While Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: “This country is proud to be a world leader in reaching Net Zero by 2050,” The National Food Strategy recommended in 2022 a 30% reduction in meat consumption – which some may say is a very conservative approach.
Healthy snacking trend accelerates in vending
Consumers are continuing to seek convenient, nutritious snacks that align with their dietary preferences and health goals, despite a cost of living crisis having a firm grip over consumer spending. According to the Vending and Automated Retail Association (AVA)
healthy snacking remains a steadfast trend, propelled by a global shift towards healthier lifestyles and increased awareness of nutrition. This is reflected in the 2022 AVA census, which found that 80%
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vendinginternational-online.com
GETTING THE PUBLIC ON SIDE Global heating demands we educate the public on the importance of their consumption habits, and with no one party responsible, consumer-facing campaign groups will be integral to progress. An example of a successful campaign with a track-record of
encouraging consumers to adopt a vegan diet is Veganuary. The campaign is hugely successful in the UK, Germany and now other countries, and takes pride but doesn’t rest on its laurels, knowing there’s plenty more people to reach. Vegan food manufacturers are adapting to changing times, strategies
are evolving, manufacturers are leveraging economies of scale, and while initial hypergrowth slows, the culture shift is evident; from the availability of plant-based milks to breakfast, lunch and dinner choices available both in the public sector and on the high street. Founder and chief executive of Plant Futures said: “The plant- based meat sector is hands down, one of the most innovative and forward-thinking categories of the food industry. The future market size is considerable however to reach mass market isn’t easy and often brands and businesses can underestimate the complexities of moving from an ‘early adopter’ to a ‘mass majority’ i.e. mass market – what is known as ‘crossing the chasm’. This is a pivotable point for plant-based meat businesses, to reach the mass market will mean to be ready and prepared for the next wave of consumers, which our insights show are unlikely to be flexitarians. I am excited to be sharing the latest insights into the plant-based meat market at the Plant Based World Expo in November, alongside lead sponsors ProVeg International and Veg Capital.”
of pre-packaged cold drinks in vending machines contain less than 5g of added sugar per 100ml, compared to 44% in 2017. Similarly, 79% of confectionery and sweet products now have under 250kcal, a notable increase from 35% in 2017. Furthermore, the proportion of sandwiches and pre-packaged meals with under 400kcal and 5g of saturated fat per 100g has risen to 17% from 10% in 2018. In regard to Veganism, popularity is still very much on the rise.
In January 2023 there was a record-breaking sign up rate for Veganuary with one person signing up every 2.4 seconds on 1st January. Many vendors have begun to offer vegan alternatives within their machines to cater for the growing trend and ensure they can provide suitable refreshments for all customers, to suit their individual dietary requirements.
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