The Rise of Plant-Based Products—Where to Source Them

Ever find yourself wondering if plant-based items are sprouting up everywhere? You're not imagining it. From oat milk latte coffee shop drinks to meatless burgers that won't shame you on the taste front, the plant-based movement is not slowing down any time soon. Maybe you own a café, fill the shelves for a supermarket, or you've noticed a gap in the market and you'd like to make your own brand of vegan cookies. Regardless of your role, one thing continues to bug you: Where on earth do I start? This guide puts an end to the mystery, from what precisely plant-based products are to how you find good suppliers. No fluff. Just down-to-earth observations, witty tips, and a few insider secrets to enable you to keep up, and outdo.

What Are Plant-Based Products?

Plant-based products are goods made primarily from ingredients derived from plants such as vegetables, fruits, grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and algae. These products avoid or minimize the use of animal-derived ingredients and are often chosen for health, environmental, or ethical reasons.

And now, here's a question that comes up a lot: is "plant-based" synonymous with "vegan"? Not necessarily. While all vegan foods are plant-based, some plant-based foods could contain trace amounts of animal ingredients, depending on the company. But most people opting for plant-based these days would prefer to see products with no animal stuff in them, less processing, and planet-friendly production.

You'll frequently discover ingredients such as pea protein, soy, oats, almonds, or even mushrooms coming to the rescue to substitute meat and dairy, providing you with comfortable flavors but with a new, green spin.

Are Plant-Based Products Healthy?

Plant-based products can be healthy, especially when made from whole foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, and grains. These items are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants that support heart health, digestion, and disease prevention.

However, not all plant-based products are created equal. Some are highly processed and may contain added sugars, sodium, and unhealthy fats. Plant-based doesn’t always mean nutritious, so it's important to read labels and choose products with simple, whole ingredients.

In general, a diet focused on whole plant-based foods can be very beneficial for overall health. Choosing minimally processed options ensures you get the most nutritional value while reducing the risk of chronic illness.

Market Snapshot: The Growth of the Plant-Based Industry

Interested in just how large the plant-based market actually is? Good news: it's growing consistently. According to MarketsandMarkets, that global plant-based food market should hit about $77.8 billion by 2025. Huge, indeed! Why's this happening? More individuals are interested in their health, the planet, and eating ethically than ever.

So what sort of plant-based products are literally taking off right now? Here are just a few of the plant-based food products you might already heard of:

• Plant-based meat alternatives are undoubtedly taking center stage. Have you tried soy-based, pea protein, or mycoprotein products? These products are extremely in because they replicate meat beautifully well
• And then there's the dairy-free legion. Almond, oat, soy, and coconut milk are ubiquitous nowadays. And vegan cheese and yogurts are fast becoming the new norm in most kitchens
• If you’re a snacker, you’ll notice lots of plant-based options too—think protein bars, jerky made from mushrooms or soy, and grain-free crisps that are winning people over
• And don’t forget drinks! Plant-based protein shakes, kombucha, and nut-based smoothies are gaining a lot of traction, especially among folks who care about health and wellness

Leading Markets

The leading markets in the plant-based industry include the U.S., China, the UK, Germany, India, Australia, and Brazil. The U.S. and UK show strong retail and consumer adoption, while China and India benefit from government support and cultural preferences. Germany leads in innovation, and Australia has rapid per capita growth. Brazil, though traditionally meat-focused, is shifting in urban areas. Health, sustainability, and flexitarianism are key global drivers, supported by expanding product availability and evolving consumer habits.

Emerging Niches

Wondering what's new and exciting in the plant-based space? Let's explore some of the interesting news:

• Plant-based seafood is making waves. Take shrimp, tuna, or salmon made from algae or konjac – yes, sounds strange, but these items are increasing rapidly and getting serious attention from consumers seeking sustainable seafood options.
• And then there's the rise of egg alternatives. Rather than using chicken eggs, more and more individuals are opting for those made from chickpeas or mung beans. They're excellent in cooking and baking, providing a clever alternative to maintain dishes as plant-based without sacrificing texture and flavor.
• Lastly, protein shakes are moving beyond muscle fuel. Plant-based beverages today commonly feature adaptogens and added vitamins, appealing to consumers who seek a health kick, not merely protein. It's all about enhancing overall wellbeing these days.

Consumer Insights: Who's Buying Plant-Based?

Millennials and Gen Z Take the Lead

These demographics are driving the plant-based market with their socially-aware attitudes, willingness to adopt new trends, and digital-first culture. Nielsen reports that more than 40% of Gen Z considers themselves "flexitarian" and makes a conscious effort to cut back on animal product usage.

Segmenting the Market

Who actually is purchasing plant-based products today? Let's break it down a little:

• Flexitarians: Heard of a person who "flexes" back and forth between eating meat and not eating meat? That's flexitarians. They may have a steak every now and then but are reducing, typically for health or because they're eco-conscious.
• Vegans: These individuals are all in. No animal products whatsoever. For them, it's really about ethics, trying not to do anything that causes animal harm.
• Health-Minded Consumers: Not all consumers are guided by ethics. Most just prefer cleaner, healthier food, perhaps so they can feel well or control a health issue. They're less absolutist but still seek out natural, wholesome foods.

Regional Demand Trends

Urban areas are at the forefront, no surprise there. Cities tend to have more specialty food stores, health food stores, and supermarkets that carry a multitude of plant-based choices. And, city dwellers are more likely to have access to information (be it social media, community happenings, or wellness groups) which spurs awareness and demand.

When we look at Europe overall, Northern and Western nations such as Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, and Sweden are certainly leading the charge. These nations enjoy high consumer interest, friendly policies, and further innovation in plant-based products. Supermarkets here tend to have whole sections for plant-based foods, which makes it convenient for consumers to browse and purchase.

At the same time, Southern and Eastern Europe are gaining ground. While plant-based foods may be less prevalent in rural areas or smaller towns, increasing awareness is awakening interest. More consumers are inquisitive and receptive to experimenting with such products, particularly as international companies and homegrown startups begin to gain wider distribution.

Thus, though some areas remain warming up to the trend, the overall thrust in Europe is unmistakable: plant-based is going mainstream, everywhere.

Types of Plant-Based Products

Interested in what types of plant-based foods are available? Let's discuss some of the most popular ones:

Meat Substitutes

Ever had tofu or tempeh? These have been around forever and are made from fermented soybeans, incredibly versatile and full of protein. And then there's seitan, which may sound upscale but is really just wheat gluten transformed into a chewy, meat-like texture that's a great fit for many meals. Nowadays, soy and pea protein are the actual heroes of many new meat replacers, imagine plant-based sausages and burgers that try to taste and feel like the actual stuff.

Dairy Alternatives

Milk alternatives are everywhere these days. Almond, oat, soy, coconut, even hemp milk, you name them. All of them have their own taste and applications, so there is plenty to play around with. Alternatives to cheese and yogurt are keeping up. Cashew cheeses, coconut yogurts, and soy spreads are becoming household staples for people who are keeping dairy at bay. Don't overlook creamers and butters, most of them utilize coconut oil, olive oil, or nuts to craft plant-based spreads that are identical to the original.

Snacks and Ready Meals

Snack foods and ready meals are actually kicking it up in the plant-based community. Consider plant-based jerky, for instance, it's constructed from mushrooms, soy, or even jackfruit, providing you with that chewy, meaty snack without the actual meat.

Frozen dinners are also an all-time favorite now, from vegan lasagnas, burritos, and stir-fry sets that make dinner simple and convenient. Soups and noodle bowls made with lentils, chickpeas, and veggie broths are also winning hearts, they're filling, delicious, and heated in minutes.

Baked Goods and Confectionery

When it comes to dessert and baked treats, there are many delicious options that omit animal products. Egg-free and milk-free cookies may substitute with flax eggs or banana puree as smart alternatives, proving just as tasty. Dark chocolate that is milk fat-free or processed sugar-free is becoming increasingly popular for individuals seeking a healthier indulgence.

Beverages

On the beverage front, plant-based protein shakes are taking shelf space with pea, rice, or hemp protein to power workouts or hectic days. Kombucha, the bubbly fermented tea full of probiotics, gets blended with fruits or herbs for added taste. Cold-pressed juices made from fruits and vegetables are also popular, full of antioxidants and great for anyone looking for a health kick.

How to Start a Plant-Based Brand

Considering starting your own plant-based brand? It's not all about leaping in, it requires some strategy to get it right.

Find Your Focus

First, ask yourself: What type of plant-based product do you want to make? Will it be snacks, beverages, or perhaps meat substitutes? Choosing one specific focus keeps you unique rather than attempting everything at once.

Consider Private Label or Custom Manufacturing

If you’re not ready to produce in-house, look into private label or contract manufacturers. Platforms like Torg can help you connect with experienced plant-based suppliers offering bulk and custom production, saving you from large capital investments and speeding up time to market. Get started for free now!

Nail Your Branding and Packaging

Your brand identity should reflect your values—be it eco-friendliness, minimalism, or fun indulgence. Invest in packaging that not only stands out on the shelf but also communicates your product benefits clearly. Descriptions such as "natural" or "sustainably produced" can greatly resonate with consumers who seek authentic products. Don’t forget to address any dietary certifications (e.g., vegan, gluten-free, organic).

Check the Rules

Don't forget about the legalities. Ensure that your production complies with any global or regional certifications for plant-based or vegan labeling. This is all about trust and staying legitimate.

Start Small and Learn

Lastly, attempt a soft launch initially, consider farmers' markets, direct-to-consumer online sales, or distribution through small specialty stores. It's a good way to get feedback and make changes before going large scale.

Where to Source Plant-Based Products

Discovering great plant-based suppliers can be daunting. If you would like ready-made solutions or basic materials to make your own, knowing where to search makes all the difference.

Torg – Your Online Sourcing Hub

Torg is an online marketplace to connect you with buyers and suppliers in the world of plant-based. It's a platform that brings verified suppliers and their products, allowing you to easily find what you are looking for without having to search endlessly. The mission? To streamline sourcing with trusted suppliers delivered directly to your screen.

Don't know how Torg works? Here's an easy-to-follow guide to get you going:

Trade Fairs

Trade shows such as Biofach, VeggieWorld, and SIAL are where the plant-based world comes to life. Why read about new products when you can taste them and touch them? These shows allow you to meet suppliers, form bonds, and uncover new ideas in one place. And discussing in person allows you to gauge quality and trustworthiness more accurately than even the best online description.

Visiting a trade fair is an excellent means to discover innovative products and meet with industry professionals who can assist in your brand's expansion.

What to Look for in a Plant-Based Supplier

Selecting a plant-based provider is not entirely about who's got the best-looking product catalog. It's sort of like dating, you want someone who's dependable, open, and willing to grow along with you. Then what should you actually ask when you're selecting one?

• "Do they carry the right certifications?" Check for vegan, non-GMO, organic, or allergen-free badges. They're not just flash in the pan labels, they indicate that the supplier is actually up to standard and not just saying it.
• "Can they explain where everything is from?" That's supply chain transparency. When a supplier can identify their ingredients back to their origin, that's a green flag. It indicates stronger accountability and typically better ethics too.
• "Can they scale with me?" You don't need to change suppliers every time your brand experiences a growth spurt. If they can't increase production, you're in a bind.
• "Will they assist me in customizing my products?" Some suppliers actually provide recipe modifications or texture changes to make your product taste like yours. That can be a deal-breaker when creating an attention-grabbing brand.
• "How quickly can they ship?" For anything new (or if your products begin taking flight off the shelves) you'll need a partner who ships punctually, every time. Being late can cost you a lot.

Your ideal supplier is more than a person who gets orders filled. They are a behind-the-scenes partner who can assist in developing your brand's future. So, ask the proper questions and don't accept anything less.

Sustainability in Plant Sourcing

Just because it's vegan doesn't necessarily mean it's good for the earth. Shocked? You're not alone. Many people take it as a given that "vegan" and "sustainable" go hand in hand, but that isn't always true. So what should you really be asking your suppliers?

• “How much water does this take to make?” Almond milk is a great example, sure, it’s dairy-free, but it also uses a ton of water. If your brand is pushing an eco-friendly angle, you’ll want to double-check the footprint.
• "What type of farming do they employ?" Are they following old monocropping, or are they experimenting with something better, like regenerative agriculture? This is more important than most people know. Healthier soil equals a healthier world.
• “Is the packaging eco-friendly?” It’s one thing to have a plant-based product, but if it’s wrapped in layers of plastic, that kind of defeats the point. Recyclable or compostable packaging goes a long way and customers notice.
• “How far does it travel?” Local doesn’t always mean better, but it can reduce emissions, especially when you’re sourcing heavy or perishable ingredients. Ask if there’s a local sourcing option before going global.

Shoppers today aren't just about a vegan label, they care how it's produced, what it's packaged in, and what it's doing to the earth. If your supply chain has all the right answers, don't feel good about it, go as far as to share it. That's your narrative.

Top 5 Plant-Based Product Suppliers

1. SOLUTIVE

A leading French supplier specializing in clean-label ingredients for private label and bulk food production, Solutive excels in stabilizers, thickeners, and emulsifiers. Their innovative products like Mixeo and Stabeo enhance a variety of plant-based applications—from sauces to dairy-free ice creams—ensuring great texture and stability for wholesale customers seeking quality and consistency.

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2. HOOKED FOODS

Sweden-based Hooked Foods is revolutionizing plant-based seafood alternatives for private label and wholesale markets. Their inventive range includes Fish-ish Sticks, Toonish, and Smoked Salmoonish, perfect for businesses wanting to offer innovative fish-style products without animal ingredients. They cater to bulk orders and custom solutions that capture the essence of seafood in a sustainable way.

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3. GROW BITE

Latvia’s Grow Bite is your go-to supplier for organic, gluten-free, and plant-based snacks suitable for private label branding and wholesale distribution. Their delicious range includes raw crackers, cookies, rolls, and plant-based burgers—ideal for retailers and foodservice operators who demand premium ingredients combined with exceptional taste in bulk quantities.

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4. ATLANTE S.R.L.

Based in Italy, Atlante S.R.L. specializes in private label and international wholesale distribution of authentic Mediterranean and vegan foods. Whether you want to stock traditional Italian and Greek delicacies or innovative vegan snacks, Atlante offers bulk supply solutions tailored for retailers and wholesalers aiming to diversify their product range with high-quality plant-based options.

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5. ORGANA

Slovenia’s Organa is a trusted producer of organic, sustainable plant-based staples like tofu, seitan, hummus, and vegan mayo. Serving private label brands and wholesale buyers, Organa focuses on healthy, versatile products made in bulk with sustainable methods—perfect for businesses prioritizing eco-friendly sourcing and broad consumer appeal.

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Trends Shaping the Plant-Based Market

The plant-based space isn’t standing still, it’s constantly shifting, and if you’re in the game (or thinking about it), these are the trends worth watching. Let’s break them down in plain terms.

Clean Label

Ever grab a product and find yourself drowning in a sea of unpronounceable ingredients? Many shoppers are saying "no thanks" to that. Nowadays, consumers want short lists of ingredients with names they can pronounce, none of the fake stuff, no strange chemicals. If it sounds like it was made in a lab, they're going back on the shelf.

Functional Foods

Why settle for plain old plant-based when you can provide more? Consider the added protein, gut-supporting probiotics, or anti-stress adaptogens. Consumers desire foods that are not only delicious but also give them more—benefits they can feel. "Is this smoothie supporting my concentration?" Yes? Wonderful, in the shopping cart it goes.

Hybrid Products

Here's a hot topic: combining plant-based with a dash of animal-based. It sounds strange, but flexitarians (you know, those people reducing meat consumption without going cold turkey) are embracing it. Perhaps it's a beef burger mixed with mushrooms, or cheese made using a mix of dairy and oats. Purists may turn up their noses, but the sales statistics do all the talking.

Next-Generation Food Tech Is Blowing Minds

You heard of mycelium-based meat? Or lab-cultured dairy that tastes the same but bypasses the cow entirely? These aren't the stuff of science fiction, they're here. Startups are employing concepts like precision fermentation to replicate animal products with no animals in the equation. It's not yet mainstream, but it's coming quickly.

Regional Flavors Are Going Global

Plant-based isn’t just about burgers and tofu anymore. More brands are tapping into cultural favorites, vegan shawarma, meat-free sushi rolls, or plant-based ghee made for Indian cooking. It’s about time, right? People want food that reflects their heritage and their health goals.

Conclusion

Thinking about stepping into the plant-based world? You’re not alone. More shoppers are reaching for meat-free meals, dairy-free drinks, and snacks with clean, easy-to-read labels. But here’s the thing: success in this space isn’t just about having a good idea, it’s about finding the right partners, asking smart questions, and knowing your customer.

Have a product idea? Keep it small, try it out on actual people, and use suppliers that can scale up with you. Ask them about supply, lead times, and how accommodating they are if you want to adjust a recipe.

And remember, this space is wide open. Whether it’s oat milk from a regional farm or chickpea pasta made in Italy, there’s room to build something real. The market is shifting, and people are paying attention. If you’re ready to move, there’s never been a better moment to start.