As consumers’ definition of health evolves, so do their dining demands. Younger consumers are increasingly concerned about health, social responsibility and sustainability, and they call for more offerings that satisfy their vegetarian- or vegan-leaning ways, according to Technomic’s recent “Center of the Plate: Seafood & Vegetarian Consumer Trend Report.”
The majority of consumers who eat vegetarian or vegan options allow meat, fish and dairy in their diet, but younger consumers are more likely than their older counterparts to follow restrictive diets. About 30% of consumers say they eat vegetarian options or substitutes at least once every 90 days, compared to nearly 40% of 18-34-year-olds. Half as many (14%) say the same for vegan options. As these consumers age and become core consumers, it will be increasingly important to satisfy their demands for vegetarian and vegan foods.