Trend cluster
Category

Cruelty-Free
Protein

Health-focused consumers get protein without guilt from plant-based products.

Protein Water BeveragesPlant-Based Protein DrinksProtein-Enriched WatersPlant-Based Protein SupplementsYoga Protein Powders

Trend

What is the Cruelty-Free Protein trend?

Cruelty-Free Protein: As consumers become better informed about where their food comes from and the impact of their food choices, many are turning to plant-based alternatives to animal products. This is extending across categories, including the health and wellness industry, where consumers are seeking cruelty-free sources of protein. Allowing health-minded individuals to satisfy both their nutritional needs and their desire to avoid animal products, this approach to health supplements offers shoppers the best of both worlds.

Trend themes

Themes within the Cruelty-Free Protein trend

Three behaviours holding the trend together
01

Plant-Based Protein

Consumers are seeking cruelty-free sources of protein in the health and wellness industry.

02

Protein Enriched Beverages

Athletes and fitness enthusiasts can up their protein intake, without consuming unhealthy ingredients in the process.

03

Gluten-Free Protein Substitutes

Health-conscious consumers who are seeking out flavorful substitutes are turning to simple, all-natural one-ingredient replacements.

Industry implications

What the Cruelty-Free Protein trend means for industry

Where the trend changes the playbook
For

Food & Beverage

Innovation in the food and beverage industry is providing health-minded individuals with cruelty-free sources of protein.

For

Fitness

Athletes and fitness enthusiasts have access to protein-enriched beverages which support muscle growth and recovery.

For

Health & Wellness

Consumers are searching for gluten-free protein-rich foods to support healthy lifestyles.

Workshop question

How can your brand take clues from culinary shifts in plant-based ingredients to become more environmentally responsible?

Trend signals

Trend signals for Cruelty-Free Protein

Trend score 3.6 out of 10, from popularity 53%, activity 48%, freshness 8%.

Popularity53%
Activity48%
Freshness8%
Audience
50%Men
50%Women
  • Gen Alpha (not a primary audience)
  • Gen Z
  • Millennial
  • Gen X
  • Boomer (not a primary audience)
Market
North America

Evidence

Examples of the Cruelty-Free Protein trend

6 featured examples from Nov 22, 2014 to Jul 5, 2017
Protein Water Beverages
CategoryLifestyle

Protein Water Beverages

For Goodness Shake's Water is Packed with 20 Grams of Protein

The fitness and health industry can harness the opportunity to market protein water beverages to a broader range of consumers.

Plant-Based Protein Drinks
CategoryLifestyle

Plant-Based Protein Drinks

The Botain Protein Drink is a Delicious Vegetarian Alternative

The food and beverage industry can continue to innovate and expand its plant-based options to meet the growing demand for vegetarian and sustainable products.

Protein-Enriched Waters
CategoryLifestyle

Protein-Enriched Waters

The 'ON Protein Water' Range Supports Muscle Growth and Recovery

Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop innovative sports nutrition products that cater to the specific needs of athletes and fitness enthusiasts.

Plant-Based Protein Supplements
CategoryLifestyle

Plant-Based Protein Supplements

These Spirulina Granules are an Easy Way to Up Your Protein Intake

Companies in the supplements and nutrition industry can leverage the trend of plant-based protein supplements to create new products and expand their customer bases.

Yoga Protein Powders
CategoryLifestyle

Yoga Protein Powders

Zen-tein is a Healthy Protein Powder Designed to Fit a Yogic Diet

The health and wellness industry can benefit from the rise of plant-based protein powders and superfood-infused protein powders that cater to specific dietary needs.

Protein-Rich Chickpea Crumbs
CategoryLifestyle

Protein-Rich Chickpea Crumbs

Watusee Foods' Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs are an Alternative to Panko

Companies in the food and beverage industry have the opportunity to create new and innovative products that cater to the growing demand for healthier, gluten-free options.