Introduction

The global meat industry has been dominated by traditional meat brands for decades. However, in recent years, a new wave of startups has emerged, challenging the status quo and disrupting the market with innovative products and sustainable practices. These startups are not only competing with traditional meat brands but also changing consumer preferences and driving the shift towards plant-based and lab-grown alternatives.

1. Beyond Meat

One of the most well-known startups in the plant-based meat industry is Beyond Meat. Founded in 2009, Beyond Meat has revolutionized the market with its plant-based burgers, sausages, and other meat alternatives. The company’s products are made from ingredients like pea protein, coconut oil, and beet juice, which mimic the taste and texture of traditional meat. Beyond Meat has gained widespread popularity and is now available in major grocery stores and restaurants around the world.

In terms of financials, Beyond Meat reported revenue of $406.8 million in 2020, a 37% increase from the previous year. The company’s gross profit margin also improved to 31.6%, showing strong growth and profitability. Beyond Meat’s stock price has also performed well, with a market capitalization of over $8 billion as of 2021.

2. Impossible Foods

Another key player in the plant-based meat industry is Impossible Foods. Founded in 2011, Impossible Foods has developed a range of plant-based products, including burgers, sausages, and ground beef. The company’s flagship product, the Impossible Burger, has gained a cult following for its realistic taste and appearance. Impossible Foods uses a proprietary ingredient called heme, which gives its products a meat-like flavor.

In terms of financials, Impossible Foods raised over $700 million in funding in 2020, bringing its total valuation to $4 billion. The company’s revenue also grew significantly, reaching $200 million in 2020. Impossible Foods has expanded its presence in retail outlets and restaurants, making its products more accessible to consumers.

3. Memphis Meats

Moving beyond plant-based alternatives, Memphis Meats is a startup that is pioneering lab-grown meat products. Founded in 2015, Memphis Meats uses cell-culturing technology to grow meat from animal cells, without the need for raising and slaughtering animals. The company’s products include lab-grown chicken, beef, and pork, which are indistinguishable from traditional meat in taste and texture.

In terms of financials, Memphis Meats has raised over $180 million in funding from investors like Bill Gates and Richard Branson. The company is focused on scaling up its production capabilities to bring lab-grown meat to the mass market. Memphis Meats has the potential to revolutionize the meat industry by providing a more sustainable and ethical alternative to traditional meat production.

4. JUST, Inc.

JUST, Inc. is another startup that is making waves in the plant-based meat industry. Founded in 2011, JUST, Inc. has developed a range of plant-based products, including egg substitutes, mayonnaise, and meat alternatives. The company’s flagship product, the JUST Egg, is made from mung beans and has become a popular choice for vegans and vegetarians.

In terms of financials, JUST, Inc. raised over $220 million in funding in 2020, bringing its total valuation to $1 billion. The company’s revenue grew by 60% in 2020, driven by strong demand for its plant-based products. JUST, Inc. is expanding its product line and distribution channels to reach a wider audience of consumers.

5. Aleph Farms

Aleph Farms is a startup that is focused on creating lab-grown meat products, specifically cultivated beef. Founded in 2017, Aleph Farms uses a unique process to grow meat from cow cells, without harming the animals. The company’s products are sustainable, ethical, and environmentally friendly, offering a more humane alternative to traditional meat production.

In terms of financials, Aleph Farms has raised over $100 million in funding to support its research and development efforts. The company is working towards commercializing its lab-grown meat products and bringing them to market in the near future. Aleph Farms has the potential to disrupt the meat industry and create a more sustainable food system.

6. Good Catch

Good Catch is a startup that is focused on creating plant-based seafood alternatives. Founded in 2016, Good Catch offers a range of plant-based products, including fish-free tuna, crab cakes, and fish burgers. The company’s products are made from a blend of legumes, seaweed, and other natural ingredients, which mimic the taste and texture of real seafood.

In terms of financials, Good Catch raised over $36 million in funding in 2020, demonstrating strong investor confidence in the plant-based seafood market. The company’s products are available in major grocery stores and restaurants, making it easier for consumers to make sustainable choices. Good Catch is committed to reducing the environmental impact of seafood production and preserving marine ecosystems.

7. Oatly

Oatly is a startup that is known for its plant-based dairy alternatives, particularly oat milk. Founded in 1994, Oatly has become a popular choice for consumers looking to reduce their consumption of cow’s milk. The company’s products are made from oats, water, and a few other simple ingredients, making them a sustainable and nutritious alternative to traditional dairy products.

In terms of financials, Oatly went public in 2021, raising over $1.4 billion in its initial public offering. The company’s revenue has grown steadily in recent years, reaching $421 million in 2020. Oatly’s products are available in over 60 countries, demonstrating strong global demand for plant-based dairy alternatives.

8. The Very Good Butchers

The Very Good Butchers is a startup that is focused on creating plant-based meat alternatives, including sausages, burgers, and deli meats. Founded in 2016, The Very Good Butchers uses ingredients like beans, grains, and vegetables to make its products, which are free from artificial additives and preservatives. The company’s products are popular among vegans, vegetarians, and flexitarians looking for sustainable and ethical meat alternatives.

In terms of financials, The Very Good Butchers raised over $8 million in funding in 2020, demonstrating strong investor interest in the plant-based meat market. The company’s revenue has also grown significantly, reaching $6.7 million in 2020. The Very Good Butchers is expanding its product line and distribution network to reach a wider audience of consumers.

9. Eat Just

Eat Just is a startup that is known for its plant-based egg substitutes and cultured meat products. Founded in 2011, Eat Just has developed a range of plant-based products, including egg-free mayonnaise, scrambled eggs, and chicken nuggets. The company also produces lab-grown meat products, such as cultured chicken, which are made from animal cells without the need for animal slaughter.

In terms of financials, Eat Just raised over $300 million in funding in 2020, bringing its total valuation to $1.2 billion. The company’s revenue has grown steadily, reaching $100 million in 2020. Eat Just is focused on expanding its product line and distribution channels to meet the growing demand for plant-based and cultured meat alternatives.

10. Greenleaf Foods

Greenleaf Foods is a subsidiary of Maple Leaf Foods, a traditional meat brand, that is focused on plant-based meat alternatives. Founded in 2018, Greenleaf Foods offers a range of plant-based products under the Lightlife and Field Roast brands, including burgers, sausages, and deli slices. The company’s products are made from ingredients like pea protein, lentils, and quinoa, which provide a meat-like taste and texture.

In terms of financials, Greenleaf Foods reported revenue of $270 million in 2020, a 25% increase from the previous year. The company’s gross profit margin also improved to 36%, showing strong growth and profitability. Greenleaf Foods is expanding its product offerings and distribution channels to compete with traditional meat brands and meet the growing demand for plant-based alternatives.

Overall, these startups are challenging traditional meat brands with their innovative products, sustainable practices, and ethical values. As consumer preferences continue to shift towards plant-based and lab-grown alternatives, these startups are well-positioned to disrupt the meat industry and create a more sustainable food system for the future.

Read: The State of the Global Meat Industry in 2025