1. History
The history of plant-based alternative food is quite extensive, and it is primarily related to vegetarianism and veganism movements.
- Ancient and Medieval Times: Ancient India and Greece encouraged vegetarianism for various reasons, often for religious purposes.
- 19th Century: Vegetarian movements also started in the West. The Vegetarian Society was founded in 1847 in the UK.
- Mid-20th Century: The development of plant-based food in the modern sense began. Notably, various plant-based protein products were introduced in the 1970s.
- 21st Century: With advancements in technology and increased awareness of environmental and health issues, plant-based alternative food has rapidly gained popularity.
2. Recent Domestic and International Trends
1) Domestic Trends
- Expansion of Consumer Base:
- Plant-based alternative food is gaining popularity, especially among young generations. Particularly, women in their 20s and 30s and the millennial generation are becoming the primary consumer groups.
- The vegan lifestyle of celebrities and influencers is spreading through media and social media, increasing consumer interest.
- Diversification of Distribution Channels:
- Plant-based alternative products are increasingly available in large supermarkets and online shopping malls.
- Cafes and fast-food restaurants are also introducing plant-based menu items one after another.
- Development of Various Plant-Based Products:
- Beyond meat substitutes, plant-based seafood and dairy products (plant-based milk, cheese, etc.) are gaining popularity.
2) International Trends
- Increased Corporate Participation:
- Global food corporations are actively entering the plant-based alternative product market. For example, companies like Nestlé, Unilever, and Tyson Foods are launching related products.
- Expansion of Plant-Based Seafood Market:
- Plant-based alternative products that can replace seafood are gaining attention, especially developed with the aim of preserving marine ecosystems and protecting the environment in the United States and Europe.
- Increased Investment:
- Venture capital and investors are showing great interest in plant-based alternative food startups, with significant capital influx.
3. Domestic Regulations
- Food Sanitation Act (Standards and Specifications for Foods):
- Article 4 (Standards and Specifications): Foods must comply with the relevant standards and specifications. For example, plant-based alternative food must meet microbiological and harmful substance criteria.
- Article 6 (Labeling Requirements): All foods must have accurate labeling, including the names and origins of ingredients for plant-based alternative foods.
- Article 8 (Standards and Procedures for Imported Foods): Imported plant-based alternative foods must comply with relevant regulations and procedures.
- Health Functional Foods Act:
- Article 3 (Standards and Specifications): Health functional foods must adhere to the relevant standards and specifications and indicate any special functional ingredients.
- Article 6 (Restrictions on Advertising and Labeling): False or exaggerated advertising is prohibited, and information must be based on scientific evidence.
- Standards for Labeling of Foods:
- Article 10 (Nutrition Labeling Standards): Nutrition facts must be accurately labeled, including components such as sugars, proteins, fats, etc.
- Article 15 (Vegan Products Labeling Standards): For products labeled as vegan, it must be clearly indicated that no animal-derived ingredients are included.
4. Future Prospects
The future of plant-based alternative food is bright in numerous aspects:
- Technological Advances:
- Cell Cultivation Technology: As cell agriculture and cultured meat technologies advance, more products will mimic the texture and taste of real meat.
- 3D Printing Food: New manufacturing technologies are expected to create more diverse plant-based alternative foods.
- Changes in Consumer Perceptions:
- Health Awareness: With the continuous spread of health trends, the consumption of plant-based alternative food will become more routine. For example, it is gaining popularity for its lack of cholesterol and low calories.
- Sustainability: Increased concern for global warming and environmental protection will lead to more consumers choosing environmentally friendly plant-based alternative food.
- Stronger Regulations and Policies:
- Sustainability-Related Regulations: Governments may introduce tax benefits or support policies to encourage more plant-based alternative food consumption.
- Food Safety Standards Enhancement: More specific and stringent food safety standards will be put in place to ensure the safety of plant-based alternative food.
반응형
'Food Trends' 카테고리의 다른 글
IARC의 발암성 물질 등급별 분류 (0) | 2024.07.16 |
---|---|
식물성 대체식품 (Plant-Based Food) (0) | 2024.07.04 |
What is Elderly-friendly food? (0) | 2024.07.03 |
고령친화식품 이란? (0) | 2024.07.03 |
The Controversy over 'Zero Sugar' Soju Labeling (0) | 2024.06.26 |