The competitive landscape in the alternative protein sector has changed quite dramatically in the UAE parallel to the rise of the plant-based industry in other major economies
The competitive landscape in the alternative protein sector has changed quite dramatically in the UAE parallel to the rise of the plant-based industry in other major economies. It has grown from being a niche alternative to a product for the mainstream in the last few years. Having said that, meat alternatives are presently the star of the plant protein industry with global companies including Beyond Meat, Impossible Foods, Tofurky, Fazenda Futuro, and other startups generating the majority of the consumer interest.
The advancement in technology in imitating the texture of traditional meat and enhancing the taste profile of meatless alternatives is resulting in growing consumer demand. It is even convincing previous cynics who once considered meat alternatives as a fad in the country. That said, food service channels and restaurants have been the dominant source of revenue for the plant protein industry in the UAE. However, in the wake up of the global coronavirus outbreak, e-commerce might emerge as a new leader in the sales of meatless products.
The presence of the world's largest food and beverage trade exhibition in Dubai is also opening doors for more global companies to enter into the growing alternative protein sector in the country. The largest plant-based consumer packaged goods company - Upfield - participated in the 2020 edition of the Gulfood Exhibition to display their range of plant protein food and beverage products. The company is targeting the UAE to gain market share in the country that is showing a growing appetite for meat alternatives.
As global plant-based players continue to enter the market, the competitiveness is expected to grow even further. This will create more partnerships with local foodservice channels and e-commerce platforms in the country.
