Ingredient companies are naming new leaders and inking new strategic distribution deals to expand the reach of clean-label, plant-based proteins to more markets. 

Whether it’s animal or plant based, protein usage in food and beverage products continues to climb. Research show that consumers increasingly are turning to plant-based proteins in the name of health.

Performance beverages were once a go-to solution only for athletes and fitness-minded consumers, but recently more and more consumers are turning to these products to enhance their everyday lives.

ALOHA expanded its ready-to-drink (RTD) beverage portfolio with its launch of Iced Coffee Plant-Based Protein. 

Ingredient suppliers demonstrate continued innovation by building new facilities, commercializing next-generation sweeteners and appointing chief diversity officers.

Vegan consumers might have gotten the plant-based diet movement started, but demand has perpetuated thanks primarily to growing consumer interest in health and sustainability, experts say.

Silk, a brand of Danone North America, released Silk Ultra, which features 20 grams of complete plant-based protein.

Royal DSM launched DelvoPlant, a range of enzymes for optimizing the taste, texture and sweetness of plant-based drinks.

Califia Farms, Los Angeles, celebrated National Oat Milk Day (May 16) with the launch of Protein Oat, an enhanced line of plant milks made from pea, oat and sunflower proteins that deliver a blend of nine essential amino acids.

The plant-based trend has evolved from niche to mainstream as plant-based ingredients from soy and almonds to newer options like pea, chickpea, oat and rice are being used in a multitude of products.