Fortune India
India’s food tech startups are betting big on plant-based proteins as health-conscious consumers seek sustainable and meat-free alternatives.
Demand for vegetarian and vegan protein options is surging among India’s urban millennials and Gen Z, driven by health, ethics, and the environment.
Players like GoodDot and Blue Tribe are reimagining Indian staples with lentils, soy, jackfruit, and chickpeas as protein-rich substitutes.
Major FMCG brands are also entering the space with ready-to-cook plant-based meats and dairy-free products to cater to the rising consumer demand.
Venture capital is pouring into alt-protein startups, viewing them as scalable, sustainable, and aligned with India's nutrition and climate goals.
Food tech innovations are enhancing the taste, texture, and cooking versatility of plant proteins, winning over even meat-eating households.
With a deeply rooted vegetarian culture and legume-rich cuisine, India is uniquely positioned to lead the global plant-based protein revolution.
Affordability, scale, and consumer education remain key hurdles as the segment moves from niche to mainstream adoption.
Analysts project India’s plant-based protein market could cross $500 million by 2027, unlocking new value for food tech and FMCG players.
Plant-based proteins are fast becoming a strategic pillar in Indian food tech—not just for conscious consumers but for the industry's next big leap.