Growth in vegetarianism among non-vegetarians

[Guest guest]

This report nicely highlights the importance of reaching out to people who

may not want to make a complete shift, but represent the greatest potential

in eating healthier, saving more animals, etc.

 

USA: New Year's resolution: eat a healthier diet? Report highlights growth

in vegetarianism

03 Jan 2002

Source: Press Release

 

Chicago, IL, January 2002 -- Are Americans looking for ways to make their

diets healthier? In a new report from Mintel Consumer Intelligence, research

shows that the vegetarian food market will continue to grow for the next

five years at a rate of 100% - 125%. The market is projected to be worth

$1.25 billion in 2001. This due to the fact that more Americans are moving

into their middle years and become more proactive about their own health and

the health of their families.

 

While only 2.5% of American consumers are consistent vegetarians, it is

estimated that 25% of consumers replace meat with meat alternatives at least

for some meals. These " occasional vegetarians " may be making the switch for

health purposes and may never intend to change their diets completely.

Nonetheless, they are a major force in the growing interest in

vegetarianism.

According to Mintel's exclusive consumer research, most respondents are meat

eaters. Although many of them have cut back on their red meat intake for

health purposes, and many are actively using meat alternatives, the majority

of respondents show little interest in making a more permanent commitment to

meat-free eating.

 

It is the occasional non-meat eaters who are worthy of more attention. They

run the gamut from those with a high school education or less to

post-college educated. They are young and old, and can be found in all

regions of the country. What these " semi-vegetarians " need is the option to

access more meat free prepared meals and/or some sort of educational program

to teach them how to prepare other meat-free alternatives.

 

Looking towards the future, the highest growth in the vegetarian food market

will come from soy milk, which currently comprises about 2% of the total

milk market. Soy has health benefits of interest to aging consumers. It is a

dairy substitute for those who are lactose intolerant and an alternative to

hormone therapy for relief of menopause symptoms. Most of the growth will

come from refrigerated soy milk.

 

Established in 1972, Mintel incorporates Mintel consumer ntelligence, global

new products database (www.gnpd.com), and Mintel consultancy. Mintel is an

independent company which operates offices in Chicago, London, Frankfurt and

Sydney.

 

Michele Simon, JD, MPH

Founder and Director

Center for Informed Food Choices

www.informedeating.org

 

PO Box 16053

Oakland, CA 94610

(510) 465-0322

michele