Introduction
The meat industry is going through a significant transformation as consumers become more conscious about their health, the environment, and animal welfare. As a result, many meat brands are now offering alternative protein options to cater to this growing demand. In this report, we will explore the top 10 meat brands that are leading the way in providing alternative protein options to consumers.
1. Beyond Meat
Beyond Meat is one of the most well-known meat brands offering alternative protein options. They have a range of plant-based products such as burgers, sausages, and ground “meat” that are designed to look and taste like real meat. Beyond Meat has seen significant growth in recent years, with their products being available in major grocery stores and restaurants worldwide.
Financials
Beyond Meat reported a revenue of $406.8 million in 2020, a 37% increase from the previous year. Their net income was $1.8 million in 2020, compared to a net loss of $12.4 million in 2019.
Volume
Beyond Meat sold approximately 94.3 million pounds of product in 2020, a 68% increase from the previous year. They have expanded their distribution to over 112,000 retail and foodservice outlets globally.
2. Impossible Foods
Impossible Foods is another popular meat brand that offers alternative protein options. They are known for their plant-based burger patties that have gained popularity in restaurants and fast-food chains. Impossible Foods has also introduced plant-based sausages and ground “meat” products to their lineup.
Financials
Impossible Foods reported a revenue of $94.4 million in 2020, a 55% increase from the previous year. Their net income was $4.2 million in 2020, compared to a net loss of $5.5 million in 2019.
Volume
Impossible Foods sold approximately 27.2 million pounds of product in 2020, a 63% increase from the previous year. They have expanded their distribution to over 20,000 retail and foodservice outlets globally.
3. Gardein
Gardein is a plant-based meat brand that offers a variety of alternative protein options such as chicken strips, beefless ground, and meatless meatballs. They are known for their high-protein, non-GMO products that are free from artificial flavors and preservatives.
Financials
Gardein is a subsidiary of Conagra Brands, and specific financial data for the brand is not publicly available. However, Conagra Brands reported a revenue of $11.1 billion in 2020, a 12% increase from the previous year.
Volume
Gardein products are available in over 20,000 retail outlets in North America. They have seen a steady increase in sales over the past few years as more consumers are looking for plant-based protein options.
4. Lightlife
Lightlife is another meat brand that offers alternative protein options such as plant-based hot dogs, sausages, and deli slices. They are known for their commitment to using non-GMO ingredients and sustainable packaging.
Financials
Lightlife is a subsidiary of Maple Leaf Foods, and specific financial data for the brand is not publicly available. However, Maple Leaf Foods reported a revenue of $3.7 billion in 2020, a 7% increase from the previous year.
Volume
Lightlife products are available in over 18,000 retail outlets in North America. They have seen a steady increase in sales as more consumers are looking for plant-based protein options.
5. Tofurky
Tofurky is a well-known meat brand that offers alternative protein options such as plant-based deli slices, sausages, and tempeh. They are known for their organic, non-GMO products that are free from artificial ingredients.
Financials
Tofurky is a privately held company, and specific financial data is not publicly available. However, they have reported steady growth in sales over the past few years as more consumers are embracing plant-based protein options.
Volume
Tofurky products are available in over 15,000 retail outlets in North America. They have a dedicated customer base that appreciates their commitment to sustainability and animal welfare.
6. Quorn
Quorn is a meat brand that offers alternative protein options made from mycoprotein, a fungus-based protein source. They have a range of plant-based products such as nuggets, burgers, and meatless grounds that are low in fat and high in protein.
Financials
Quorn is a subsidiary of Monde Nissin, and specific financial data for the brand is not publicly available. However, Monde Nissin reported a revenue of $1.4 billion in 2020, a 10% increase from the previous year.
Volume
Quorn products are available in over 20,000 retail outlets globally. They have seen significant growth in sales in recent years as more consumers are looking for meat alternatives that are both healthy and sustainable.
7. Field Roast
Field Roast is a meat brand that offers alternative protein options such as plant-based sausages, deli slices, and roasts. They are known for their artisanal, handcrafted products that are made from whole-food ingredients.
Financials
Field Roast is a subsidiary of Greenleaf Foods, and specific financial data for the brand is not publicly available. However, Greenleaf Foods reported a revenue of $700 million in 2020, a 15% increase from the previous year.
Volume
Field Roast products are available in over 10,000 retail outlets in North America. They have a loyal customer base that appreciates their commitment to using high-quality, plant-based ingredients.
8. MorningStar Farms
MorningStar Farms is a well-known meat brand that offers alternative protein options such as plant-based burgers, breakfast sausages, and chicken nuggets. They are known for their wide range of products that cater to different dietary preferences.
Financials
MorningStar Farms is a subsidiary of Kellogg Company, and specific financial data for the brand is not publicly available. However, Kellogg Company reported a revenue of $13.8 billion in 2020, a 4% increase from the previous year.
Volume
MorningStar Farms products are available in over 30,000 retail outlets in North America. They have a strong presence in the market and continue to innovate with new plant-based product offerings.
9. Sweet Earth
Sweet Earth is a meat brand that offers alternative protein options such as plant-based burritos, burgers, and seitan products. They are known for their globally inspired flavors and sustainable sourcing practices.
Financials
Sweet Earth is a subsidiary of Nestle, and specific financial data for the brand is not publicly available. However, Nestle reported a revenue of $98.7 billion in 2020, a 2% increase from the previous year.
Volume
Sweet Earth products are available in over 15,000 retail outlets in North America. They have a diverse product lineup that appeals to consumers looking for convenient, plant-based meal options.
10. Amy’s Kitchen
Amy’s Kitchen is a well-known meat brand that offers alternative protein options such as plant-based soups, pizzas, and frozen meals. They are known for their organic, non-GMO products that are made with simple, wholesome ingredients.
Financials
Amy’s Kitchen is a privately held company, and specific financial data is not publicly available. However, they have reported steady growth in sales over the past few years as more consumers are seeking out plant-based meal options.
Volume
Amy’s Kitchen products are available in over 20,000 retail outlets in North America. They have a dedicated customer base that appreciates their commitment to using high-quality, organic ingredients.
In conclusion, the meat industry is evolving to meet the changing preferences of consumers who are looking for alternative protein options that are healthy, sustainable, and delicious. The top 10 meat brands highlighted in this report are leading the way in providing a diverse range of plant-based products that cater to this growing demand. As more consumers embrace plant-based eating, we can expect to see continued innovation and growth in the alternative protein market.
Read: The State of the Global Meat Industry in 2025
