Shift to Plant-Based Snacks: Examining the Rise of Vegan Savory Snacks in the Frozen Bakery Market

The frozen bakery market is currently witnessing a significant transformation, with the rise of plant-based diets shaping consumer preferences and product offerings. This shift is particularly evident in the growing popularity of vegan savory snacks, which are redefining taste and convenience in the frozen food sector. This article explores the factors driving this trend, the challenges and opportunities it presents, and the impact on the frozen bakery market.

Plant-Based Eating: A Growing Trend

Plant-based eating is experiencing a surge in popularity, with U.S. retail sales of plant-based foods growing by 6.2% in 2021, reaching a market value of $7.4 billion. This growth outpaces total food retail sales, signaling a significant shift in consumer habits. The snack and bakery market, including frozen pizza and other products, is expanding its range to include more vegetarian and vegan options, catering to consumers focusing on a plant-based diet. This trend is not just about offering alternatives to meat but broadening the spectrum of plant-based snack and bakery products.

Technological Advancements and Consumer Preferences

New technologies and an industry focus on improving plant-based offerings have enhanced the taste and texture of vegan snack and bakery products. Consumers primarily choose plant-based alternatives for health and environmental reasons. The challenge has been to create products that not only align with these values but also deliver on taste and texture, which are now being met through advanced food science and culinary techniques.

Expansion in Vegan Savory and Low-Carbohydrate Bread Products

The frozen bakery market is seeing growth in vegan savory snacks and low-carbohydrate bread products. Mainstream appeal is driving this expansion, supported by the rapid development of plant-based protein concentrates and isolates in bakery products. The demand for functional proteins from consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies is also contributing to this trend. Furthermore, dessert and cake mixes are witnessing higher projected annual growth rates, offering opportunities for CPG companies to delve into healthier indulgences.

Challenges in Developing Plant-Based Bakery Products

Creating plant-based bakery products that are both delicious and nutritious involves overcoming challenges related to texture and flavor. Using masking ingredients and flavor enhancers for plant proteins is essential to developing products that meet consumer expectations. Survey research has shown that traditional meat substitute consumers often cite texture as a challenge in plant-based foods, emphasizing the need for more refined product development.

The Frozen Bakery Market: Poised for Continuous Growth

The frozen bakery market is set to cross a projected market size of USD 81 billion by 2032. This growth is driven by innovation, with a focus on health, convenience, and artisanal quality. As consumers increasingly seek healthier options, the industry is adapting with technological advancements. However, challenges such as maintaining quality during scale-up and meeting diverse consumer demands present both hurdles and opportunities for innovation and growth in the sector.

Plant-Based Snacks in the Frozen Bakery Sector

The shift towards plant-based diets has notably influenced the frozen bakery sector, with vegan-friendly options expanding rapidly. Brands are introducing vegan savory pastries in response to the growth in veganism, reflecting a broader consumer trend towards plant-based eating. This expansion is a testament to the industry's adaptability and its commitment to catering to evolving consumer preferences.