Indian cuisine is not complete without dairy milk and derivatives, plant-based milk replacers are gradually penetrating the Indian food market with international health and wellness trends and ethical consumerism (
).
Lactose intolerance and dairy allergies are the top reasons consumers switch to plant-based dairy alternatives around the world. Over the years, various studies have revealed that 60-90% of Indians suffer from lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, with the concentration being highest for some ethnic groups and communities and lowest for others.
With increased awareness of lactose intolerance, demand for plant-based dairy alternatives is on the rise, albeit from a low base.
Furthermore, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the fear of the transmission of viruses, bacteria and other germs through products derived from animals has spread among people. This boosted the appeal of vegetarians, vegans and flexitarian diets.
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Also, many Indian parents are concerned about feeding their children cow’s milk amid media reports of milk adulteration and overuse of antibiotics and growth hormones on cattle farms. In addition, consumers prefer dairy non-dairy products, such as almond milkcashew milk and coconut milk, due to its low carbon footprint and cruelty free stuff.
GlobalData’s 2023 survey also showed that “plant-based” was an essential factor when making purchasing decisions among 36% of Indian respondents. However, the higher price of dairy alternatives is driving away low- and middle-income consumers (2✔ ✔trusted source
How well do plant-based alternatives fare nutritionally compared to cow’s milk?
go to source).
Another concern about dairy alternatives is that they are highly processed foods. Manufacturers strive to match the flavor, flavor, and textural qualities of dairy alternatives on par with traditional dairy products and offer a range of interesting options that may appeal to vegans and vegetarians. All this is done to overcome consumer resistance.
Manufacturers can also launch public awareness campaigns and encourage consumers to get tested for lactose intolerance and milk allergies. Given the high prevalence of these conditions among Indians, this may be a game changer for the market for plant-based dairy alternatives.
References :
- Plant-based dairy alternatives: consumer perceptions, motivations and barriers: results of a qualitative study in Poland, Germany and France – (https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/14/10/2171)
- How well do plant-based alternatives fare nutritionally compared to cow’s milk? – (https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13197-017-2915-y)
Source: Medium
