The plant-based meat boom had a wild ride. It took off fast, hit grocery shelves hard, and pulled in billions in funding. But now? Sales are cooling. Consumers are pushing back on price and taste. Even big names like Beyond Meat and Impossible are feeling the slowdown.
But here’s what’s not slowing down: the demand for sustainability.
If your business is serious about future-proofing, packaging is where the real long-term impact is happening—and where you can still win.
The Alt-Meat Comeback Might Take Time
Between 2021 and 2023, U.S. sales of plant-based meat dropped by over 25%. Why?
Cost: Alt-meat still runs 2x the price of regular meat
Taste and texture complaints
Market saturation without mass adoption
Yet, analysts still project long-term growth. The global market is expected to hit $33 billion by 2031. But it’s clear: growth won’t come just from the novelty of plant-based; it’ll come from brands that connect with values.
That’s where sustainable packaging makes a difference today.
Consumers Still Want to Buy Better
Even as they hesitate on alt-proteins, shoppers continue to:
Choose brands with low-waste or compostable packaging
Reject plastic-heavy products
Look for clear labeling and certifications like BPI and FSC
Expect businesses to take responsibility beyond just what’s on the plate
Packaging plays a bigger role in perception than most businesses realize.
Why Green Packaging Still Wins
Whether you’re serving beef, black beans, or both—packaging is part of your brand’s sustainability story.
Here’s what compostable and biodegradable food packaging products offer that plant-based meat alone can’t:
Immediate environmental impact (less landfill waste, less plastic)
Compliance with emerging single-use plastic bans
Lower shipping costs with lightweight but sturdy materials
Alignment with Gen Z and Millennial values around waste and climate
A visible, tangible way for customers to feel good about their purchase
In short, it’s easier to fix packaging than reinvent meat.
What Businesses Can Do Right Now
If you’re running a food franchise, managing F&B operations, or rethinking your menu, this is the moment to upgrade your packaging game.
Look for:
FSC-certified, ISO-approved packaging
Bagasse-based containers, bowls, and tableware
Custom branding to reinforce your green values
Scalable supply with local U.S. warehousing
BRCGS and Amfori BSCI assurances for sourcing and safety
Don’t wait for consumer habits to catch up—lead with packaging that makes an immediate difference.
How We Help You Stay Ahead
SoGreenPack offers a full range of high-quality disposable tableware and paper goods, designed to meet the evolving needs of food services and sustainability-focused businesses.
Our line includes:
Custom-branded food containers
And we keep it simple: no fluff, just products that meet certifications, reduce waste, and work in real kitchens.
Even if the meat’s still up for debate, the packaging doesn’t have to be. Let’s make your next move cleaner, smarter, and built to last.