The Tastewise Blog

The rise of plant-based products in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry is not a fad. It is a trend that is here to stay. Consumers increasingly gravitate towards healthy, sustainable, ethical food and household items. This demand has led to a surge in plant-based CPG products, and companies that are quick to capitalize on this trend are reaping the benefits.

If you are a CPG company looking to expand your product line to include plant-based options or an entrepreneur looking to launch a new plant-based product, here are some tips to help you succeed in this growing market.

1: Understand the market demand

Before you dive into creating a plant-based product, it is crucial to understand the market demand. Conduct market research to determine what plant-based products are popular and what unmet needs exist. You can also use social media to understand what consumers are talking about and what products they seek.

One emerging trend in the plant-based CPG market is the focus on clean ingredients. Consumers are seeking products free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. They want products that are made with whole foods and are minimally processed.

Another trend is the focus on sustainability. Consumers are concerned about the impact of their purchasing decisions on the environment and seek eco-friendly products, sustainably sourced packaging and ingredients.

2: Create a high-quality product.

Once acquainted with the market demand, it is time to start creating your product. It is vital to create a high-quality product that meets the expectations of your target audience. Use high-quality ingredients and ensure that the product tastes good and performs well.

When it comes to plant-based products, texture and flavor are particularly important. Consumers are used to the taste and texture of traditional animal-based products, so it is essential to create a plant-based product that is as close to the real thing as possible. Include innovative ingredients and processing methods to create a delicious and satisfying plant-based product.

In addition to taste and texture, it is paramount to consider the nutritional profile of your product. Consumers are increasingly interested in plant-based products high in protein, fiber, and other nutrients. Consider fortifying your product with plant-based sources of protein such as pea protein, chickpea protein, or soy protein, as well as other functional ingredients that offer additional health benefits.

3: Market your product effectively

Creating a high-quality product is just the first step. You also need to market your product effectively to reach your target audience. Understand your target audience and tailor your marketing messages to their needs and preferences.

In addition to social media, consider partnering with influencers in the plant-based community. These influencers have a large following of consumers interested in plant-based products and can help you reach a wider audience.

Finally, consider attending trade shows and other industry events to showcase your product and connect with potential customers and partners. These events are a great way to get your product in front of a targeted audience and generate buzz around your brand.

4: Stay ahead of the trend

The plant-based CPG market is constantly evolving, and it is paramount to be ahead of the trend to remain competitive. Keep an eye on emerging trends and be willing to pivot your product line in response to changing consumer preferences.

For example, the trend towards clean ingredients is likely to continue, and consumers may become increasingly interested in plant-based products that are organic or non-GMO. It is vital to stay up-to-date with these trends and adapt your product line accordingly.

In addition to staying ahead of the trend, it is also important to innovate and differentiate your product from the competition. Consider adding unique ingredients or flavors to your product or exploring new processing methods that create a unique texture or flavor profile.

Conclusion

The rise of plant-based CPG products is not a fad but a trend here to stay. Consumers are increasingly interested in healthier, more sustainable, ethical food and household items. Companies that are quick to capitalize on this trend are reaping the benefits.

In the plant-based CPG market, it is essential to understand the market demand, create a high-quality product, market your product effectively, and stay ahead of the trend. With these strategies in mind, you can create a successful plant-based product that meets the needs and preferences of your target audience.

To learn more about flavor trend predictions, turn to Tastewise. We are the data platform the food and beverage industry uses to innovate faster, market better, and grow sales. Get a demo!