Source:Chris Scott, MEATINGPLACE, 4/16/15


Consumers are expected to reassess their intake of meat-based proteins in favor of diets containing more fiber in the coming years, according to a new survey from Datamonitor Consumer.

The global survey indicates that consumers are becoming more aware of the potential negative health effects of diets consisting of high protein levels, especially through what the researchers called “protein variants” like breakfast cereals and salty snacks.

The survey found that while younger consumer are especially most likely to eat “as much protein as possible,” thay are also most likely to be concerned about the side effects of high-protein consumption, including constipation.

“Concerned young adults will be actively seeking out solutions to the problem, in the form of food and drink that is high in fiber, while aligning with their protein intake goals,” noted Melanie Felgate, senior analyst for Datamonitor Consumer. “The trend is already starting to gain momentum, with an increasing proportion of new food launches in recent years tagged as both high in protein and high in fiber.”

Felgate added that near-term trends will include a shift to beans and other foods that combine protein with fiber and a long-term adjustment away from diets singling out specific foods groups and toward more natural, unprocessed whole foods. She also suggested that all food and drink brands need to prepare to use terms like “raw” and “natural” rather than “low-fat” or “high protein” in their future marketing efforts.

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