Plant-based milk drinks are missing from store shelves

By: Trademagazin Date: 2024. 02. 20. 12:33

The trend of plant-based foods that is spreading throughout Europe does not leave Hungary cold either, but surprisingly, not a single domestic manufacturer produces such products. The Agrárszektor asked Zombor Berezvai, an assistant professor at Budapest’s Corvinus University, some questions to understand why domestic dairy industry players are left out of this growing market.

Hungary’s agricultural characteristics would be ideal for the production of plant-based beverages. Oats, soy and rice are grown in significant quantities at home, while other popular ingredients such as coconut or almonds could be imported. So why are domestic businesses lagging behind in this area?

According to the assistant professor, entering a new and innovative product category requires the attitude of the company manager and the general industry environment. However, the majority of Hungarian dairy industry players see plant-based milk alternatives as a threat and a passing trend. As a result, there is less willingness to take risks and enter this growing market.