Dairy Brands Ramp Up Variety, Innovation | Progressive Grocer
Key Takeaways
- Demand for plant-based dairy products will continue to grow quickly as more consumers seek alternatives to dairy items, based on the perception that nondairy offerings are better for health, the environment and animals than traditional dairy products.
- As an increasing number of shoppers include both dairy and alt-dairy items in their diets, more hybrid products, combining milk with almonds or oats, for example, will appear on the market, allowing greater innovation for dairies.
- Meanwhile, the traditional dairy space continues to offer inventive new products centering on health and wellness, transparency and sustainability, premium ingredients, and convenience.
Additionally, protein remains a hot topic for many health-minded buyers. “When it comes to dairy, we’re seeing the added protein trend in every category,” notes DMI’s Ziemnisky. “This includes high-protein ice cream, ready-to-drink coffee with milk, creamers, and cultured caffeinated dairy drinks.”
“Dairy manufacturers need to hone in on the fact that these are real dairy proteins and to connect and engage with consumers,” advises Richard. “Also, it may seem counter to how it reads, but the fact that milk has a shorter shelf life can be used to an advantage — this is a fresh product.”