Of the three “macronutrients,” protein, lipids, and carbohydrates, protein ranks as foremost on the minds of consumers as they strive to eat more healthfully, age gracefully, and stay youthfully energetic. As 2019 opens its doors, the race to provide protein as both a nutritional enhancement and a primary formulation component will become more heated. Here’s what food and beverage makers can expect in the way of protein possibilities in the coming year.
Plant proteins are, without any doubt, going to continue to surge forward for a while to come. Last summer, Innova Market Insights reported that plant-based product claims increased by 62% globally from 2013 to 2017, noting that the primary drive was focused on plant-derived proteins. And according to the USDA, the meat substitutes market topped $4.6 billion this year and is expected to increase by at least another 50% in the next four years.