Europe Meat Substitute Market: Size, Growth and Trends Forecast | 2025-2034

Europe Meat Substitute Market Outlook

According to the report by Expert Market Research (EMR), the Europe meat substitute market size attained a value of USD 3.93 billion in 2024. Aided by the increasing consumer demand for plant-based protein alternatives and the rising awareness of the health and environmental benefits of meat substitutes, the market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.20% between 2025 and 2034, reaching a value of USD 8.67 billion by 2034.

Meat substitutes refer to plant-based products designed to mimic the taste, texture, and appearance of traditional animal-based meats such as beef, chicken, and pork. These substitutes are often made from ingredients like soy, peas, wheat, and rice, and are formulated to provide similar nutritional benefits as their animal-derived counterparts. The surge in demand for meat alternatives is driven by changing consumer preferences, environmental concerns, health-conscious eating habits, and the growing popularity of vegetarian and vegan diets across Europe.

Driving Factors Of Growth

The increasing adoption of plant-based diets and the growing awareness about the environmental impact of animal agriculture are the major drivers behind the Europe meat substitute market growth. With concerns about climate change and sustainability on the rise, consumers are seeking more sustainable food options, including plant-based proteins that have a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to traditional meat production. According to various studies, plant-based meat alternatives use fewer resources, including water and land, and result in lower greenhouse gas emissions.

In addition to the environmental benefits, the health advantages associated with meat substitutes are another driving force behind their growing demand. Plant-based products are often perceived as healthier alternatives to meat due to their lower levels of saturated fats and cholesterol. With increasing awareness of the link between excessive meat consumption and various health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, more consumers are turning to plant-based options as part of a healthier lifestyle. The shift in dietary habits is also evident in the rising popularity of flexitarian diets, where consumers reduce their meat intake while incorporating more plant-based foods into their meals.

Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated the adoption of plant-based diets, as people became more health-conscious and sought alternatives to animal-based products in response to food supply disruptions and concerns about the safety of consuming meat. As a result, plant-based meat substitutes gained significant traction, and their acceptance among mainstream consumers grew.

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Consumer Trends and Preferences

The Europe meat substitute market is experiencing a transformation driven by changing consumer preferences. A significant portion of the demand for plant-based meat alternatives is coming from millennials and Generation Z, who are more likely to prioritize sustainability, health, and animal welfare when making food choices. These younger consumers are increasingly embracing flexitarian diets, where they reduce meat consumption without completely eliminating it, and are more open to trying plant-based alternatives.

Moreover, the demand for meat substitutes is not limited to vegans and vegetarians alone. A growing number of omnivores and flexitarians are adopting plant-based substitutes as a way to reduce their overall meat consumption and introduce variety into their diets. This shift is evident in the rise of “meatless Mondays” and similar initiatives that encourage people to incorporate more plant-based foods into their weekly meal plans.

The convenience factor also plays a significant role in the growing adoption of meat substitutes. As more meat alternative products become available in ready-to-eat forms, such as pre-cooked sausages, burgers, and ready-made meals, busy consumers are increasingly drawn to these products as convenient, quick, and healthy meal options. The availability of these products in supermarkets, fast-food chains, and online platforms has made plant-based alternatives more accessible and affordable for mainstream consumers.

Europe Meat Substitute Market Segmentation

The market can be divided based on source, product, type, and country.

Market Breakup by Source

• Soy Based
• Wheat Based
• Pea Protein
• Others

Market Breakup by Product

• Tofu
• Tempeh
• Seitan
• Quorn
• Others

Market Breakup by Type

• Concentrates
• Isolates
• Textured

Market Breakup by Country

• Germany
• United Kingdom
• France
• Italy
• Others

Competitive Landscape

The EMR report looks into the market shares, plant turnarounds, capacities, investments, and mergers and acquisitions, among other major developments, of the leading companies operating in the Europe meat substitute market. Some of the major players explored in the report by Expert Market Research are as follows:

• Associated British Foods plc
• DuPont de Nemours, Inc.
• Schouten Europe B.V.
• Ruitenberg Ingredients B.V.
• Kerry Group plc
• Ingredion Incorporated
• Vivera
• BENEO GmbH
• Beyond Meat Inc.
• VBites Foods Ltd.
• Others

Challenges and Outlook

Despite the rapid growth of the Europe meat substitute market, challenges remain, including the relatively higher cost of plant-based products compared to conventional meat and the need for improved taste and texture. However, as consumer demand continues to grow and production technologies evolve, these challenges are expected to be overcome, leading to broader market penetration.

The Europe meat substitute market is expected to continue its strong growth trajectory, driven by health-conscious consumers, environmental concerns, and innovations in food technology. With the growing popularity of plant-based diets and the increasing availability of meat substitutes, the market presents significant opportunities for both established and new players in the food industry.

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