‘Big Meat’ bets big… on plants?
‘Big Meat’ firms – which now like to describe themselves as ‘protein’ specialists - are investing heavily in plant-based alternatives: JBS has created a standalone business dedicated to this market (Planterra Foods); Smithfield has developed the Pure Farmland range; Tyson Foods is expanding its Raised & Rooted brand; Cargill is investing in plant-based proteins and its own plant-based meat products; Hormel has unveiled Happy Little Plants, and Conagra Brands continues to invest in its Gardein brand.
Perdue Farms is also exploring the space after dipping its toes in the water with its Chicken Plus nuggets, tenders and patties, hybrid products featuring a 50:50 blend of chicken and plant-material (the latter supplied from The Better Meat Co).
