Assessing Opportunities and Challenges of Plant-Based Meat Alternatives: A Comprehensive Analysis of Consumer Preferences, Market Trends, and Production Responses

PROJECT SUMMARY Instructions: The summary is limited to 250 words. The names and affiliated organizations of all Project Directors/Principal Investigators (PD/PI) should be listed in addition to the title of the project. The summary should be a self-contained, specific description of the activity to be undertaken and should focus on: overall project goal(s) and supporting objectives; plans to accomplish project goal(s); and relevance of the project to the goals of the program. The importance of a concise, informative Project Summary cannot be overemphasized. Title: Assessing Opportunities And Challenges Of Plant-Based Meat Alternatives: A Comprehensive Analysis PD: Zhao, Shuoli Institution: University Of Kentucky CO-PD: Zheng, Yuqing Institution: University Of Kentucky CO-PD: Pates, Nicholas, J. Institution: University Of Kentucky CO-PD: Woods, Timothy, A. Institution: University Of Kentucky CO-PD: Mark, Tyler, B. Institution: University Of Kentucky CO-PD: Institution: CO-PD: Institution: With recent advances in food processing technology, new generation plant-based meat alternatives (PBMAs) have stimulated increasing market attention with meat-like texture, appearance, nutritional facts, aroma, and especially taste. This project aims to comprehensively evaluate economic opportunities and regulative challenges for PBMAs by integrating research insights from the consumer, market, and production sectors of the supply chain. Specifically, we leverage primary data collection, retail- and household-level secondary data analysis, and spatial data modeling to evaluate 1) consumer preferences and adoption patterns toward PBMAs, 2) market demand, price elasticity, state-level labeling policy, and competitions between PBMAs and animal- based meat (ABM), and 3) domestic supply responses to PBMA demand and the associated environmental benefit. This project aligns with Program Area Priority A1641, "Economics, Markets, and Trade," where the findings from this research will fill the knowledge gap in both supply and demand sides of PBMAs under an interconnected scope, and provide baseline information to shape relevant food policies. We will also work with the USA Dry Pea and Lentil Council and Upcycled Food Association to extend the impact of the research to relevant stakeholders. With promising benefits in environmental sustainability, public health, animal welfare, and worker protection, PBMAs can be a credible solution to drive people''s protein sources toward sustainable food systems. Correspondingly, this project will provide timely and comprehensive information for both PBMA and ABM industries to assess the opportunities and challenges of the dietary transition to plant-based proteins. This file MUST be converted to PDF prior to attachment in the electronic application package.