National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) has released survey results over consumer perceptions about the plant-based meat industry.
The survey was conducted online and had 1,800 respondents. Of the participants, less than half understand the term “plant-based beef” was intended to describe an entirely vegetarian or vegan food product.
Approximately one-third of the surveyed consumers believed plant-based meat contained at least some real beef in them.
“The fact that so many consumers look at these labels and think that the products include meat or other animal byproducts is a clear sign that the misleading labeling and deceptive marketing practices of plant-based fake meat companies has caused real consumer confusion,” said Jennifer Houston in her past role as president.
Other survey results are as follows. Almost 45 percent of consumers believed plant-based products were lower in sodium; 34 percent believed plant-based meat to be less processed; and 34 percent believed plant-based products and real beef were on the same level of processing.
More than half of the survey respondents believed plant-based meat was healthier.
“We in the beef industry need to do a better job educating consumers about the fact that beef is a nutrient-rich source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients that can play a key role in any healthy lifestyle,” Houston said.
