Four in 10 Americans Have Tried Plant-Based Meat

According to a new study, nearly half of Americans have reported trying plant-based meat alternatives.

Although 97 per cent of Americans are still reportedly eating meat, the polls show an increasing popularity of plant-based meat products among Americans. 

The new data was released this week by Gallup, analytics and advisory company based in Washington, D.C.

Gallup surveyed more than 2,400 adult Americans, and 41 per cent of them said they had tried a plant-based meat product. 

Several divides emerge among those polled. The age and income are the most significant factors in whether people try meat substitutes.

Forty-seven per cent of those aged 18 to 29 and 50 per cent of those 30 to 49 have tried meat alternatives products, compared to 38 per cent of 50- to 64-year-old and 26 per cent of those aged 65 and above.

Residents of wealthier households located in suburban areas have tried meat substitutes more frequently, than urban and rural residents.

Fifty-four per cent of those making more than $100,000 said they had tried plant-based meats -- compared to 44 per cent for adults between $40,000 and $100,000 and 31 per cent for those making less than $40,000.

People who live along the East and West coasts are also more likely to have tried plant-based meat.

The survey indicates that those who have tried plant-based meat once are more likely to try it again. 

At least 6 out of 10 Americans, reportedly will continue eating plant-based meat after having tried it once, according to the poll.

This trend is seen across almost all major demographics, regardless of race, age or income. 

"Economists' projections of high growth for the plant-based meat industry appear well-founded, given the initial level of interest Gallup has measured," Gallup researchers Justin McCarthy and Scott DeKoster said.

"The fact that around 60 per cent of those who have eaten plant-based meat would do so again is good news for a young industry seeking to expand."