According to the UN, the dairy industry contributes approximately 3.4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, making it a significant contributor to climate change. As a result, dairy alternatives are actively replacing traditional dairy products that have adverse effects on the environment.
While many alternative dairy products are considered sustainable, there is a growing belief within the industry that simply promoting sustainability is not enough. Many stakeholders in the alt dairy sector believe that it is also their responsibility to educate consumers about sustainability.
However, there are others who argue that an aggressive focus on sustainability may not align with consumer preferences. Instead, they believe that the key to challenging the dairy industry lies in creating exceptional plant-based products that consumers will choose over animal-based dairy.
During our Protein Vision event in June, industry leaders in the alt dairy sector shared their perspectives on sustainability. Some emphasize the importance of eliminating animals from the production process as the most crucial aspect of alt dairy’s sustainability. For example, Sorosh Tavakoli, the CEO of Stockeld Dreamery, a Sweden-based alternative cheese company, believes that their main focus should be on converting dairy to plant-based alternatives due to the significant impact it has on sustainability.
Tavakoli argues that by making their products as appealing as possible, they can effectively replace dairy usage and reduce overall consumption. While Stockeld Dreamery does measure its carbon footprint and boasts a cream cheese with significantly lower emissions than its dairy equivalent, the company prioritizes the taste and quality of their products over their sustainability.
On the other hand, some industry leaders, like Brad Vanstone, co-founder of Willicroft, a Dutch alt cheese company, believe that businesses have a responsibility to lead the conversation on sustainability. Vanstone believes that companies should focus on changing the mechanics of the food system, starting with farmers. He emphasizes the importance of measuring emissions and continuously striving for improvement in sustainability plans.
Nick Watkins, founder of MIGHTY, an alt milk company, agrees with the significance of education. He suggests that clearly indicating the eco-credentials of products on their packaging is an effective way to communicate sustainability to consumers. Watkins believes that providing quantifiable data and using imagery can help consumers better understand the environmental impact of their choices.
The urgency of consumer education and awareness is crucial, particularly in light of recent climate events such as the wildfires in Canada. Watkins highlights the need for a seismic shift in consumer behavior to drive positive change, and it is the responsibility of brands to educate consumers about the benefits of sustainable choices.
To stay informed about the latest trends in the food and beverage industry, including innovation, sustainability, regulations, and consumer preferences, register to watch the recorded sessions from our Protein Vision event.
