Consumers preserve familiar customs with dairy-free cheese products
Implications - As consumers look to reinvent their diets without compromising enjoyment, many are embracing vegan cheese products that allow them to replicate familiar flavor experiences. Suitable for a number of dietary restrictions and lifestyle choices, such dairy-free alternatives provide the rich tactile experience and social value of sharing a cheese platter as a cultural custom without offsetting personal health. This shift demonstrates the emotional connection that exists between consumers and their eating habits and the opportunity for brands to help replicate those experiences.
Workshop Question - Imagine a light version of your brand. What would it sacrifice for your consumers? What would they gain?
Trend Themes
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Plant-based Cheese Products — As many consumers are now taking care to remove soy and dairy from their diets, the demand for plant-based cheese products has risen, creating an opportunity for brands to fill the void in the market.
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DIY Cheese Kits — Consumers are taking it upon themselves to craft quality non-dairy cheese substitutes with the help of DIY cheese kits, opening an opportunity for brands to cater to this growing market.
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Soft Cashew Cheeses — Non-dairy cheese products are being perfected with new soft and spreadable cashew-based products for omnivorous and discerning vegan consumers. Brands must perfect their vegan cheese-making techniques to compete in this market.
Industry Implications
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Food Industry — As consumers grow more conscious of their health and dietary needs, the food industry should provide more innovative plant-based cheese options to suit this demographic.
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E-commerce Industry — The DIY cheese kit trend highlights the potential for e-commerce platforms to provide consumers with personalized, artisanal and dairy-free cheese options straight to their doorstep.
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Health & Wellness Industry — The increasing awareness of health concerns surrounding conventional dairy products is opening new opportunities for the health and wellness industry to provide non-dairy cheese alternatives to those with dietary restrictions.
