Plant-Based Alternative Food

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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Increased Investment:
   • Venture capital and investors are showing great interest in plant-based alternative food startups, with significant capital influx.

3. Domestic Regulations

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.