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Plant-Based Meat Export: India’s Next Big Opportunity

Plant-Based Meat Export: India’s Next Big Opportunity

It looks and tastes like chicken, but it isn’t chicken. More people are choosing a vegan lifestyle, leading to a significant increase in the dem and for plant-based meat. This development is more than just a trend; it’s a big business change. India has an outstanding knowledge of plant-based nutrients, making it well-suited to be a leader in exporting plant-based meat.

Reasons for the Rapid Growth of the Plant-Based Meat Industry

The international plant-based meat business is worth $7.9 billion and is expected to grow by 34% each year. By 2027, this market will exceed $15.7 billion due to growing concerns about ethics, the environment, and health. In the US, the number of vegans has grown 40 times in recent years, and in Europe, more than 2.6 million people have become vegan.

This change is happening quickly. By 2040, more than 60% of people are going to choose plant-based diets. With the growing desire for plant-based meat, it’s not just a new food idea—it’s a valuable opportunity for exports.

Why India Is Perfectly Positioned for Plant-Based Meat Export

India has been improving plant-based nutrition for hundreds of years. In India, meat substitutes such as jackfruit, soya cheap, and lentils were already popular fare before the concept of lab-grown meat gained traction in the West. India has a big advantage in the plant-based meat export market because of its traditional methods, low production costs, and plenty of plant proteins.

India has strong potential to lead in this area because of several key reasons: 

  • A long history of understanding plant-based foods 
  • The largest vegetarian population creates local demand and room for growth
  • Lower production costs than Western countries 
  • A strong agricultural base, providing easy access to raw materials 
  • Unique ingredients like jackfruit, mushrooms, and lentils that appeal to global markets

Current Industry Leaders

A number of Indian companies have seen this potential and are actively working to expand their export of plant-based meat.

GoodDot – Selling in over 10 countries, showing high global demand

Blue Tribe Foods – Supported by celebrities Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma

Imagine Meats – Started by Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia D’Souza and is changing the market.  

Wakao and Urban Platter – It aims to attract customers both in India and abroad.

There is still plenty of opportunity for new names. GoodDot has 750 reviews on Amazon, but its 3.2-star rating shows that it can do better. This is a great chance for new companies to improve taste, structure, and quality while entering international markets.

Export Opportunities and Demand on an international level

As more people want healthy and sustainable food, India has a great chance to become a top exporter of plant-based meat.

Here are the biggest opportunities:

Consumers in the US spend $12 for a unit, while manufacturers in India keep their prices as low as ₸50.

Middle East – There is a strong need for halal-certified plant-based meat. 

Europe – More people are choosing sustainable protein options.

Southeast Asia – Looking for budget-friendly vegetarian alternatives for daily meals.

Additionally, India has some natural benefits compared to Western plant-based goods like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods:

  • Jackfruit is less expensive than soy, making it a budget-friendly option.
  • Mushroom growing skills help create better-tasting products
  • Old fermentation methods improve nutrition
  • Knowledge of spices makes flavors more real and enjoyable

Also Read This: The Negotiable Instruments Act: Securing Transactions in India

How Will India’s Export of Plant-Based Meats Develop?

The new trend in plant-based goods goes beyond just making meat alternatives like chicken or beef. Indian entrepreneurs have a great chance to grow in the plant-based meat market. This includes exporting packaged goods, frozen meals, and working with restaurants. There is an increasing need for this, as mentioned below.

Plant-based kebabs 

For Middle Eastern and Mediterranean eaters 

Vegan biryanis and meat-free stews 

Ideal for people from India.

Ready-to-eat meals 

A growing trend in international economies.

Fusion fast food options 

Fusion fast food choices are popular among younger people who are moving towards vegan diets.

Wrapping It Up

As a result of the increasing demand for plant-based products and the growing number of export opportunities, India is leading the charge in this transformation. India is ready to become the leading manufacturer of plant-based meat because it can make products inexpensively, has a variety of plant proteins, and has good cooking skills.

Now is the time for business owners, food tech companies, and investors to take action. There is clear potential to grow by creating new plant-based products, boosting current ones, or exploring new markets for export. India’s plant-based meat export business is set to enter the international market.

FAQs

What is plant-based meat made of?

Plant-based meat is made from ingredients like soy, mushrooms, jackfruit, beans, millet, and rice to imitate the look and taste of real meat.

Is plant-based meat better than real meat?

Yes, it has less saturated fat, no cholesterol, and is high in fiber, making it a healthy and more sustainable choice.

How can Indian businesses enter the plant-based meat export market?

Businesses can start by using India’s farming resources, creating new products, and working with international shipping networks to access foreign markets. 

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