A whole new world
The need for changes to traditional meat production based on population growth and demand isn’t the only driver behind this trend. According to the Food Frontier 2020 State of the Industry Report, 42 per cent of Australians are actively reducing the intake of animal products in their diet.[1] This is seeing a rise in ‘flexitarians’, those people who are choosing to reduce their meat consumption for some or even all their meals.
Health is also a key motivator driving increased interest in plant-based eating as more Australians seek to reduce their meat consumption. In response to this rising demand for healthy ways to eat, plant-based proteins are popping up on menus all over the world.
And unlike traditional tofu, tempeh, or even early meat alternatives, these new foods capture the taste and texture of real meat and poultry, making them a hit with all kinds of consumers, from vegans to flexitarians and meat eaters.
The trend, unsurprisingly, has a significant generational bias toward Gen Z and Millennials.[2] Demand for plant-based foods is skyrocketing among these younger generations because both tend to hold strong beliefs on, health and the environment.
The rise of flexitarian eating

The need for changes to traditional meat production based on population growth and demand isn’t the only driver behind this trend. According to the Food Frontier 2020 State of the Industry Report, 42 per cent of Australians are actively reducing the intake of animal products in their diet.[3] This is seeing a rise in ‘flexitarians’, those people who are choosing to reduce their meat consumption for some or even all their meals.
Health is also a key motivator driving increased interest in plant-based eating as more Australians seek to reduce their meat consumption. In response to this rising demand for healthy ways to eat, plant-based proteins are popping up on menus all over the world.
And unlike traditional tofu, tempeh, or even early meat alternatives, these new foods capture the taste and texture of real meat and poultry, making them a hit with all kinds of consumers, from vegans to flexitarians and meat eaters.
The trend, unsurprisingly, has a significant generational bias toward Gen Z and Millennials.[4] Demand for plant-based foods is skyrocketing among these younger generations because both tend to hold strong beliefs on health and the environment.

We love an occasion
So why can’t people who want to eat less meat just eat more vegetables? As the hospitality industry has seen with the rise in proper non-alcoholic spirits, people still want to have their ‘occasion’. We crave social interactions and so the popularity is soaring for products that enable occasions to still happen, meaning you can have a burger that is meat-free or a G&T that is alcohol-free.
These products are also ones that work for venues and staff. With non-alcoholic spirits, bartenders can mix the drinks they have always mixed, in the same way, understanding those techniques and flavours. And this is hugely important for chefs as well, being able to offer meat-free items on the menu, without having to radically change kitchen operations is of paramount importance. It needs to be a simple switch.

The plant-based opportunity
It all adds up to create an exciting opportunity for out of home menus across the country. Whether consumers are changing their eating habits out of concern for their health, the environment, animal welfare, or other reasons, people are actively looking for options. As venues begin to finally reopen, a global study shows 33 per cent of consumers will prioritise their health after the pandemic crisis, which may lend to future growth of plant-based protein sales.[5]
Put simply, if a menu doesn’t cater to these consumers seeking to reduce meat, regardless of the reason for their choice, then venues are closing themselves off to potential revenue and incremental sales. Don’t get left behind.

How Harvest Gourmet® can help
The Harvest Gourmet® SensationalTM Burger has a 4.5 health star rating. Made from plants, the burger contains protein from soy and wheat it has the appearance of marbled fat through the presence of coconut oil, and vegetable concentrates to create the rich colour.
The Vegetarian Chargrilled Pieces, with a 5 health star rating. Made with simple ingredients such as apple puree, vegetable oils, onion, soy protein and garlic, these pieces are the perfect meat free addition to pizzas, wraps, curries, salads and more.
The Sensational Mince TM has been developed by our global experts to behave in the same way as regular mince ensuring no impact on operations. Delivering on flavour and texture, you will be able to create anything from delicious vegan pastas, plantballs, pies, burritos and more with this one product.
All products are Healthy Kids Registered, are high in plant-based protein and have little operational impact on kitchens, it’s the simple switch to a healthier meat free option.
Visit Harvest Gourmet® – Bidfood Australia or contact your local Bidfood representative to find out more.
References
Food Frontier 2020 State of the Industry Report (Feb 2021)
Willett W, Rockström J, Loken B, Springmann M, Lang T, Vermeulen S, et al. Food in the anthropocene: The EAT Lancet Commission on healthy diets for sustainable food systems. Lancet [Internet]. 2019 [cited 2021 Feb 17];393(10170):447-92. Available from: Food in the Anthropocene: the EAT–Lancet Commission on healthy diets from sustainable food systems – The Lancet
King T, Weber J. Hungry for plant-based: Australian consumer insights [Internet]. Brisbane: Colmar Brunton; 2019 Oct 29 [cited 2021 Feb 17]. Available from: https://www.foodfrontier.org/reports. Highlights report jointly published by Colmar Brunton, Food Frontier and Life Health Foods.
The Food People ‘Plant-based, a developed market perspective’ (2021 August 19)
- Firmenich Global Covid 19 Food & Beverage Tracking Study. [Company presentation] Firmenich: Switzerland; 2020 Jun