In our July 2020 State of the Industry Report, we detailed the continued rise of refrigerated and frozen plant-based foods, which were ascending to record heights at the time due to pandemic purchasing by consumers. Plant-based retail sales were 90% over 2019 numbers by mid-April, according to the Plant-Based Food Association and SPINS.
From a January 2021 perspective, it’s likely more consumers than ever are aware of plant-based foods—no longer a niche category—and while many continue to buy meatless staples like veggie burgers, sausages, crumbles and more, they’re also seeking newer varieties, along with improved flavor profiles and updated better-for-you ingredients.