Top 10 Meat Companies Expanding into Plant-Based Protein

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Written by Robert Gultig

10 February 2025

Introduction

The global meat industry has been experiencing a significant shift in recent years, with more and more consumers turning towards plant-based protein alternatives. This trend has not gone unnoticed by some of the biggest meat companies in the world, who are now looking to expand their offerings to include plant-based products. In this report, we will take a closer look at the top 10 meat companies that are making the move into the plant-based protein market.

1. Tyson Foods

Tyson Foods, one of the largest meat companies in the world, has been making strides in the plant-based protein space. The company launched its Raised & Rooted brand in 2019, offering plant-based nuggets and burgers. Tyson Foods has also invested in Beyond Meat, a leading plant-based protein company, showing its commitment to the growing market.

2. Cargill

Cargill, another major player in the meat industry, has also recognized the potential of plant-based proteins. The company has introduced its own line of plant-based products under the brand name PlantEats. Cargill has been investing in research and development to create innovative plant-based alternatives to meat products.

3. JBS

JBS, the largest meat processing company in the world, has recently announced its entry into the plant-based protein market. The company has launched its own plant-based burger under the brand name Ozo. JBS is looking to capitalize on the growing demand for plant-based protein alternatives.

4. Hormel Foods

Hormel Foods, known for its meat products, has also started to venture into the plant-based protein space. The company acquired plant-based protein company Applegate in 2015, expanding its offerings to include plant-based sausages and burgers. Hormel Foods is looking to diversify its product portfolio to cater to changing consumer preferences.

5. Smithfield Foods

Smithfield Foods, a leading pork producer, has also shown interest in plant-based proteins. The company has launched its own line of plant-based products under the brand name Pure Farmland. Smithfield Foods is looking to tap into the growing market for plant-based protein alternatives.

6. Marfrig Global Foods

Marfrig Global Foods, a Brazilian meat company, has entered the plant-based protein market through a joint venture with plant-based protein company Archer Daniels Midland (ADM). The joint venture, known as PlantPlus Foods, offers a range of plant-based products to cater to the changing consumer preferences.

7. Perdue Farms

Perdue Farms, a major poultry producer, has also started to explore plant-based protein alternatives. The company launched its own line of plant-based products under the brand name Perdue Farms Harvestland. Perdue Farms is looking to diversify its product offerings to meet the growing demand for plant-based proteins.

8. Pilgrim’s Pride

Pilgrim’s Pride, a leading chicken producer, has recently announced its entry into the plant-based protein market. The company has launched its own line of plant-based products under the brand name Green Cuisine. Pilgrim’s Pride is looking to capitalize on the increasing popularity of plant-based proteins among consumers.

9. Maple Leaf Foods

Maple Leaf Foods, a Canadian meat company, has been actively expanding its plant-based protein offerings. The company acquired plant-based protein company Lightlife Foods in 2017, allowing it to offer a wide range of plant-based products. Maple Leaf Foods is committed to sustainability and meeting the changing needs of consumers.

10. Conagra Brands

Conagra Brands, a major food company, has also recognized the potential of plant-based proteins. The company has introduced plant-based products under its Gardein brand, offering a variety of plant-based meat alternatives. Conagra Brands is looking to cater to the growing demand for plant-based protein products.

Read: The State of the Global Meat Industry in 2025

Related Analysis: View Previous Industry Report

Author: Robert Gultig in conjunction with ESS Research Team

Robert Gultig is a veteran Managing Director and International Trade Consultant with over 20 years of experience in global trading and market research. Robert leverages his deep industry knowledge and strategic marketing background (BBA) to provide authoritative market insights in conjunction with the ESS Research Team. If you would like to contribute articles or insights, please join our team by emailing support@essfeed.com.
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