The recently published research article “Plant-based protein products in the news: Mind the gap between innovation and public discourses” highlights several pros and cons of plant-based protein products as discussed in the media and perceived by the public.
The media coverage of plant-based protein products between 2010 and 2018, using a sample of articles from major newspapers in the United States and Europe, and the increased in recent years is in line with the growing market for these products.
Using a sample of online comments from social media platforms, the study found that public perceptions of plant-based protein products are mixed. Some people view plant-based protein products as a sustainable and healthy alternative to meat, while others view them as a fad or an inferior substitute for meat. The study also found that public perceptions of plant-based protein products are influenced by factors such as personal values, beliefs, and experiences.
Pros:
- Environmental benefits: Plant-based protein products are often presented as a sustainable alternative to meat, as they have a lower environmental impact than animal-based products.
- Health benefits: Plant-based protein products are also often presented as a healthier alternative to meat, as they are lower in saturated fats and cholesterol.
- Market growth: The market for plant-based protein products is growing, as more people are choosing to reduce their consumption of animal-based products for health, environmental, and ethical reasons.
Cons:
- Inferior substitute: Some people view plant-based protein products as an inferior substitute for meat, and may see them as a fad or a trend.
- Unfamiliarity: Some people may be unfamiliar with plant-based protein products, and may not know how to prepare them or may not enjoy their taste or texture.
- Cost: Some people may see plant-based protein products as more expensive than meat, which could limit their appeal to some consumers.
- Personal values: Personal values, beliefs, and experiences can influence people’s perceptions of plant-based protein products, and these perceptions may not always align with the environmental and health benefits of these products.
It’s important to note that this research article is based on a specific sample of media coverage and online comments and the findings may not necessarily reflect the overall view of plant-based protein products. Additionally, the environmental and health benefits of plant-based protein products may vary depending on factors such as the way it is produced, and the person consuming it.
The gap between innovation and public discourses is a significant challenge for the plant-based protein industry. Although the majority of the media coverage portrayed plant-based protein products as a solution to environmental and health issues, however public perceptions of these products are mixed and the industry should consider how to communicate the benefits of plant-based protein products to the public and address the concerns that people may have about these products.
Reference: Maria Tziva , Agni Kalfagianni, Simona Negro, Marko Hekkert, et al. (2023). Plant-based protein products in the news: Mind the gap between innovation and public discourses. PLOS Sustainability and Transformation https://journals.plos.org/sustainabilitytransformation/article?id=10.1371/journal.pstr.0000044
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