United Kingdom (UK) Plant-based Food Market Overview, 2028

In the UK Major cities, particularly London, Manchester, and Brighton, have a thriving vegan and vegetarian restaurant scene. These establishments offer a diverse range of plant-based dishes, from traditional British cuisine with a vegan twist to international vegan options. The UK is known for its vegan junk food culture, offering a wide variety of plant-based burgers, pizzas, and other comfort foods. Vegan fast-food chains and eateries have gained popularity, catering to those seeking indulgent plant-based alternatives. Several high-street restaurant chains in the UK have introduced dedicated vegan menus and options. This move reflects the increasing demand for plant-based choices. The UK has seen the rise of vegan-friendly pubs and cafés, offering traditional British pub food and afternoon teas with plant-based twists. These establishments cater to locals and tourists seeking vegan options in a more traditional setting. According to a poll commissioned by the UK government, the majority of vegans in the country are relatively new to the lifestyle, with 63% having begun in the previous five years. Furthermore, the vast majority of British vegans (81%) migrated to vegetarianism, many of whom have been eliminating meat from their daily meals. Nestle launched plant-based pea milk in its UK stores. The product is made from protein-packed yellow peas. Thus, the growing preference for plant-based diets and the major meat processors and manufacturers announcing their intentions to join the competition with their line of meat alternatives present a massive opportunity for plant-based food and beverage consumption. This trend is expected to keep growing in the forecast period.

According to the research report "United Kingdom Plant Based Food Market Overview, 2028," published by Bonafide Research, the United Kingdom Plant Based Food market is projected to reach market size USD 3068.29 Million by 2028. Increasing awareness of health and wellness benefits associated with plant-based diets has been a major driver in Germany. Consumers are recognizing that plant-based foods can be rich in nutrients, lower in saturated fats, and may contribute to better overall health. Concerns about animal welfare and the ethical treatment of animals have driven many consumers in Germany to adopt plant-based diets. The desire to avoid contributing to animal suffering is a powerful motivator for choosing plant-based foods. Germany has witnessed a surge in the vegan and vegetarian movements, with an increasing number of people identifying as vegans or vegetarians. This cultural shift has positively impacted the plant-based food market. Plant-based dining has become more prominent in fine-dining establishments, with renowned chefs and restaurants incorporating creative and sophisticated plant-based dishes on their menus. The UK is home to the world's first 100% vegan pub, The Spread Eagle in London. Additionally, there are a growing number of vegan restaurants and eateries across the country, showcasing the diversity of plant-based cuisine. Many major fast-food chains in the UK now offer dedicated vegan menus and plant-based options. Brands like McDonald's, KFC, and Burger King have introduced vegan burgers and meals to cater to the growing demand for plant-based choices.

In term of product type is divided into Plant-based Milk, Plant-based Meat and Seafood, Plant-based Cheese, Plant-based Desserts, Plant-based Ice Cream, Plant-based Yogurt, Plant-based Butter, Plant-based Bars, Plant-based Bakery Snacks and Confectionery, Plant-based Creamer, Plant Based Mayyonaise and Salad Dressing and Others. Among them, Plant Based Milk segment is expected to the highest Market Share. A significant portion of the population in the UK, like in many other countries, is lactose intolerant or allergic to dairy products. Plant-based milk provides a suitable alternative for individuals with these dietary restrictions, making it a popular choice. Consumers in United Kingdom, like in many other countries, have become more health-conscious, seeking healthier alternatives to traditional desserts. Plant-based desserts, made from ingredients like nuts, fruits, and coconut milk, are often perceived as healthier options as they are typically lower in saturated fats and cholesterol-free. The growing popularity of veganism and vegetarianism in United Kingdom has contributed to the increased demand for plant-based desserts. Vegans and vegetarians avoid animal-derived ingredients, making plant-based desserts a suitable option to enjoy sweet treats without animal products. In addition, the rise of veganism and vegetarianism has driven the demand for plant-based bakery snacks and confectionery. Vegan consumers avoid animal-derived ingredients, and plant-based options allow them to enjoy a wide variety of snacks and confectionery without compromising their dietary choices.

Based on distribution channel, Convenience stores, also known as corner shops or small grocery stores, are also a notable distribution channel for plant-based food products in the UK. These stores cater to consumers looking for quick and convenient purchases. For instance, some well-known convenience store chains and small grocery stores in the UK that may offer plant-based food products include Co-op Food, Tesco Express, Sainsbury's Local, Budgens, Spar, Londis, Nisa Local, Premier and more. In addition, the e-commerce channel has experienced significant growth in the distribution of plant-based foods in the United Kingdom. Online platforms and delivery services offer a convenient way for consumers to access a wide variety of plant-based products. For instance, some well-known e-commerce platforms and online retailers in the UK that offer plant-based food products include Ocado, Amazon, Tesco Online, Sainsbury's Online, Asda Online, Morrisons Online, Waitrose Online, TheVeganKind, Planet Organic.

Plant-based food products in the UK must adhere to EU regulations on food safety and quality. This includes complying with hygiene standards, using approved additives and ingredients, and following good manufacturing practices. The UK follows strict regulations regarding the labeling of allergens in food products. Plant-based food manufacturers must declare the presence of common allergens, such as soy, nuts, and gluten, on the product labels. For plant-based food products labeled as organic, producers must follow regulations set by the EU Organic Farming Regulation (EC) 834/2007. This ensures that organic plant-based products meet the required standards for organic production and labeling. The Food Standards Agency is the UK's independent government department responsible for food safety and hygiene. It plays a significant role in setting and enforcing regulations related to the safety and quality of plant-based food products.



Developments:
• Quorn Foods is a prominent UK-based company specializing in meat substitutes made from mycoprotein, a protein-rich fungus-based ingredient. They offer a wide range of plant-based products, including meatless burgers, sausages, nuggets, and ready-to-eat meals.
• Although Beyond Meat is a US-based company, its plant-based products have gained significant popularity in the UK. Their Beyond Burger and Beyond Sausages have been featured in various restaurants and retail outlets across the country.
• Violife is a leading brand in the vegan cheese market in the UK. They offer a diverse range of dairy-free cheese alternatives, including slices, blocks, shreds, and cream cheeses.
• Oatly is a Swedish oat-based company that gained substantial traction in the UK with its oat milk products. They offer various oat milk varieties, including barista editions and flavored options.
• The Meatless Farm Co is a UK-based company specializing in plant-based meat alternatives. Their product range includes meatless burgers, mince, and sausage products.
• Moving Mountains is a UK-based company known for its plant-based burgers, sausages, and hot dogs. They focus on creating meat substitutes with a texture and taste that closely resemble animal-based meats.

Considered in this report
• Geography: United Kingdom
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report
• United Kingdom Plant-based Food with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Product Type
• Plant-based Milk
• Plant-based Meat and Seafood (Tofu, Quorn, Seitan, Fish, TVP, Burger Patties, Tempeh, Hot Dogs and Sausages, Meatballs, Ground Meat, Nuggets, Crumbles, Shreds, Crab, shrimp, Others)
• Plant-based Cheese
• Plant-based Desserts (Cakes, Pastries, Custard, Pudding, etc.)
• Plant-based Ice Cream
• Plant-based Yogurt
• Plant-based Butter
• Plant-based Bars (Protein Bars, Energy Bars, Cereal Bars, Fruit & Nut Bars, etc.)
• Plant-based Bakery Snacks and Confectionery (Biscuit and Cookies, Bread and Rolls, Chocolate, etc.)
• Plant-based Creamer
• Plant Based Mayonnaise and Salad Dressing
• Others

By Distribution Channel
• Hypermarkets and Supermarkets
• Convenience Stores
• E-Commerce
• Others

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations and organisations related to the Plant-based Food industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.