Vegan Products – Market Characteristics and Development Prospects

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the work was to present selected vegan products; market characteristics and development prospects on the Polish market.

Methodology: A market review of selected vegan products available on the Polish food market was conducted. The range of substitutes for meat products, cold cuts and milk was analyzed. The availability of vegan products was assessed based on selected 5 retail stores, 5 chains of the most popular hypermarkets, 5 supermarkets in Warsaw and 4 online stores. The review also covered catering establishments with a vegan offer, such as cafes and fast food restaurants. The research was conducted from September to November 2023.

Results: The vegan market of meat substitutes and plant-based drinks is developing dynamically, trying to meet consumer expectations and respond to their nutritional needs. Consumers have more and more choices, and vegan products can be purchased not only in specialized stores, but also in supermarkets, local stores and discount stores.

Implications and recommendations: Continuation and extension of research to include consumer research will enable defining new directions of development and consumer expectations.

Originality/value: An up-to-date review of meat and milk substitutes on the Polish market, which was missing in the current literature. Up-to-date knowledge about available vegan products has been updated.