With plant-based foods gaining momentum, more consumers are shifting toward dairy-free choices. Research conducted on behalf of BENEO reveals that over 30% of consumers are cutting back on dairy, while nearly half (49%) have already embraced dairy alternatives. Also an important number is that 32% enjoy plant-based treats like chocolate. Yet, there’s still room to grow with another third of flexitarian consumers being curious about dairy alternatives, and 42% are keen to explore plant-based sweets.

These flexitarian consumers are a crucial target group for plant-based product manufacturers, making it essential to understand what influences their purchasing decisions. According to BENEO’s survey, their top motivations for choosing dairy alternatives include health benefits and overall well-being (49%), a preference for natural ingredients (44%), and the desire to maintain a balanced diet (44%). To appeal to this audience, brands must emphasize nutritional quality and reinforce their positioning as ‘better-for-you’ options.

Furthermore, offering a pleasant taste and texture is also a key driver to repeat purchase. Almost half of global flexitarians (46%) pay attention to these aspects when shopping for plant-based dairy alternatives and almost three in four (73%) find it (very) important that these products have a similar full-bodied mouthfeel like products containing dairy.

After learning all of these above statistics and trends, enter BENEO’s delicious dairy-free cocoa dessert! A delightful application possibility that showcases the power of faba bean protein, all while ticking off the above needs of today’s consumers. The indulgent treat proves that dairy alternatives can offer a desired taste, texture and nutrition. Download the in-depth paper and discover how faba bean protein can elevate your next dairy alternative innovation.

BENEO source references for this article are available on request.