10 November 2024

Plant-Based Revolution: The rise of plant-based food and beverage brands and how contract manufacturers are adapting to meet the growing demand.

The Plant-Based Revolution is rapidly transforming the food and beverage industry as consumers increasingly shift toward plant-based diets for health, environmental, and ethical reasons. This trend is driven by a growing awareness of the benefits of plant-based foods, such as lower risks of heart disease and reduced carbon footprints, leading to a surge in demand for alternative proteins and non-dairy products. As a result, numerous plant-based brands are emerging, offering innovative products that cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs.

Contract manufacturers are playing a crucial role in this rise by adapting their production processes to accommodate the unique requirements of plant-based foods.

Australian contract manufacturers are adapting to the rising demand for plant-based beverages by upgrading their facilities and processes to handle non-dairy ingredients like oats, almonds, soy, and coconuts. They are investing in specialised equipment for plant-based milk production, such as high-pressure processing and ultra-high-temperature (UHT) treatment, to ensure product safety and extended shelf life. Additionally, manufacturers are focusing on creating allergen-free, gluten-free, and non-GMO certifications to meet consumer preferences. By collaborating closely with plant-based brands, they are driving innovation in flavour, texture, and nutrition while scaling up production capabilities to accommodate the growing market demand for diverse plant-based beverages.