Plant-based CPG innovations create breakthroughs in taste, textures

Plant-based cheese finally moves into the spotlight—After years of experimentation, plant-based cheese makers have crafted products with the tastes, flavors and consistencies consumers want. Take a bite of their stories.

Grocery delis entice vegans with elevated plant-based meats—As vegan meats achieve texture and flavor milestones, natural grocers are incorporating them into sandwiches, burritos and more. Get a taste of what’s new.

June investments roundup: Alt-meats get approval, financing—Following the USDA's approval Good Meats' and Upside Foods' cell-cultivated chicken, other alt-meat companies made news with investments received in June.

In the Aisle: Innovative vegan foods include cheese, butter, seafood—Leaving its history of lackluster "meatless burgers" behind, the craft vegan movement offers a variety of attractive plant-based options.

Climax Superfoods' founder: Animal milk is unnecessary—With computers analyzing specific plant compounds and combinations, researchers can more quickly create enticing plant-based foods and dairy products, he says.

Ardent Mills helps meet consumer demand for gluten-free, plant-based alternatives – download—From gluten-free flours, mixes, blends and more, Ardent Mills is here to support brands as the plant-based trend expands.

Unboxed: 18 next-level plant-based products—While the abundance of plant-based options at Natural Products Expo East this year was evident, what stood out the most was the subtle shift in product formulation and positioning.

Unboxed: 7 meat-free proteins for vegans to celebrate summer—Summer: Time to fire up the grill and dine outside. But what can plant-based eaters enjoy? These seven alternative proteins will please every vegan's palate.

Unboxed: 18 algae-based products for all aisles of the store—The tides of “blue food” products are rising, but seaweed, kelp and algae are not limited to just food. Check out this gallery, where New Hope unboxes marine plant-based products across categories with seemingly limitless possibilities.

Unboxed: 6 vegan holiday dessert recipes for a festive season—Natural brands offer six fabulous holiday dessert recipes that use plant-based products in place of traditional dairy. Share these ideas with customers.

Unboxed: 8 plant-based foods for holiday charcuterie and cheese boards—A new wave of vegan foods and high-end, non-alcoholic drinks make everyone feel welcome at upcoming parties and celebrations. Considering stocking these.