2-2 |
Soy in meat alternatives |
J. R. KILBURN, Harvest Direct, Inc., PO Box 50906, Knoxville, TN 37950 Meat alternatives are a growing consumer choice, with sales above US$350 million in 2000. They are a key part of the total soyfoods market of US$2.4 billion in the US. Soy based meat alternatives constitute the majority of the sales and account for most of the new products being introduced. Major US food companies have acquired smaller companies to enter the market. This trend is driven by changes in consumer attitudes regarding soy. A new survey found that 71% of consumers view soy as “very healthy” compared to 59% in 1997. The improved perception of soy is helped by the FDA approval of a health claim for soy based products and a general recognition of the need for a healthy lifestyle. Improvements in taste and texture and more availability in mass market stores also influence the growth. Soy based meat alternatives can be developed using various soy ingredients, either as the primary source of protein or combined with wheat. Products currently on the US market range in protein type, protein content, and functional binding systems. Many use the new health claim while others are promoted as meat alternatives. The various products will be summarized by category. Choices can be made for the commercial development of new soy based meat alternatives.
Session 2, Developing new generation soy ingredients and soyfoods
|