Price, Taste, and the Future of Meat: A Clear Guide to What’s on your Plate

The way we eat is evolving. More people across the US and around the world are rethinking their relationship with meat. For some, it’s about health. For others, it’s the environmental impact or ethical concerns. But the outcome is the same: growing interest in new, better ways to enjoy meat without the drawbacks of traditional production. 

That’s where meat alternatives come in. What used to be a niche category is now a serious player in the food industry, powered by technology, innovation, and a whole lot of flavour. Redefine Meat is proud to be part of that movement, offering what we call new-meat: products that deliver the full experience of meat without the animal. 

In this guide, we’ll break down the rise of meat alternatives, how pricing works, where you can find these products, and how to choose the right options for you. 

From Tofu to Tech: A Brief History of Meat Alternatives 

Meat alternatives aren’t a modern invention. For centuries, East Asian cultures have used ingredients like tofu and seitan as flavourful, high-protein substitutes. However, the modern wave of meat alternatives, significantly propelled by American food tech innovation, only gained momentum in recent decades. 

The first wave of modern meat alternatives brought us veggie burgers and soy-based sausages. Fast forward to today, and we’re seeing a whole new level of innovation. Advanced processes, including 3D printing and plant-based tissue engineering, are enabling the creation of premium cuts that look, cook, and taste like the real thing. Redefine Meat is leading this charge, offering premium new-meat products that don’t just imitate meat–they reimagine it. 

Price Analysis: Are Meat Alternatives More Expensive? 

One of the most common questions shoppers ask is about cost. Historically, many meat alternatives were indeed pricier than animal-based meat options like ground beef or chicken breasts found at the supermarket. This price gap was due to several factors: 

• Research & Development Investments: Creating new technologies requires substantial funding. 

• Production Costs: Manufacturing at a smaller scale can increase processing costs compared to the highly optimized traditional meat industry. 

• Ingredients: Certain specialized plant-based ingredients can be more expensive. 

• Subsidies: The traditional meat industry often benefits from government subsidies that are typically not available to alternative meat producers. 

The good news for budget-conscious shoppers is that this price gap is narrowing. As technology becomes more efficient, production scales up, and market competition intensifies, the prices of meat alternatives are becoming more competitive. Companies like Redefine Meat are actively working towards achieving “price parity” (matching the price of animal-based meat) and aim to offer even more affordable products in the long run, without sacrificing quality. 

In fact, there are early signs that this shift is already happening. In 2022, for example, meat alternatives in the Netherlands were temporarily cheaper than animal meat- a glimpse of what may soon become the norm. According to recent forecasts, meat alternatives are expected to drop below the price of animal-based meat globally by the end of 2026. It’s a powerful indicator of the direction the industry is heading: high-quality, animal-free options that are not just sustainable, but cost-effective too. 

While prices currently vary significantly depending on the brand, product type, and retailer (for example, premium grocers versus discount chains), more and more options are becoming available at prices comparable to quality animal meats. In markets like the US, UK, and across Europe, this trend is accelerating as meat alternatives become more integrated into mainstream retail and foodservice. 

For consumers, this means that meat alternatives, like Redefine Meat, are becoming a realistic, accessible option. In many cases, the prices are already comparable to premium cuts of animal meat, especially when you consider what you’re getting: innovation, sustainability, and a new way to enjoy meat. 

Market Drivers: Why Demand is Growing in the USA  

Several key trends are fueling the rise of meat alternatives in the US: 

• Health awareness: Consumers are more informed than ever about nutrition, and many are reducing saturated fats and cholesterol in their diets. 

• Environmental concern: Issues like water usage, land degradation, and greenhouse gas emissions are leading people to seek climate-conscious food options. 

• Ethical considerations: For many, animal welfare plays a big role in their decision to explore alternatives. 

• Product innovation: The development of tastier, more diverse products that closely mimic animal meat is attracting new audiences, including many American “flexitarians” – people who are actively reducing their meat consumption but still enjoy meat occasionally. 

• Widespread Availability: Meat alternatives are now readily available across numerous sales channels, from national supermarket chains to high-end restaurants and even college campuses. 

• Focus on “Premium Cuts”: There’s a market shift from focusing primarily on ground products (like burgers and sausages, perfect for grilling) towards developing premium cuts such as steaks and roasts. These present a greater technological and culinary challenge – one that Redefine Meat is successfully tackling. 

A Competitive Market with Room to Grow 

The US market for meat alternatives is dynamic and diverse. It includes: 

• Dedicated brands that built their reputations in this space. 

• Food industry giants entering the market through in-house brands or acquisitions. 

• Innovative startups like Redefine Meat, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. 

• Private labels and regional players catering to local preferences. 

Redefine Meat stands apart through its ability to produce premium cuts with authentic, meat-like texture and mouthfeel- something that sets us apart in a category often focused on ground products. 

Global Growth: A Quick Look Beyond the US 

While this guide focuses on the US, it’s worth noting how international markets are responding: 

• Israel: One of the most established markets for meat alternatives, with strong consumer awareness. 

• UK: Health and sustainability are major motivators, with strong retail support. 

• Germany: Rapid growth and investment from leading supermarket chains. 

• Netherlands: High openness to innovation and sustainability-driven demand. 

• France: Slower uptake but increasing interest, particularly among younger consumers. 

Tips for Choosing and Using Meat Alternatives 

• Read the label: Look for protein content, ingredient quality, and sodium levels. 

• Try a variety: Ground, pulled, and premium cuts all bring something different to the table. 

• Season it well: As with animal meat, a good marinade or spice mix can make all the difference. 

• Follow cooking instructions: Proper preparation brings out the best flavour and texture. 

• Ease in: Start with familiar meals, like this Bolognese recipe with Redefine Meat, or this pulled-pork taco recipe. 

Leading the Way with New-Meat 

Redefine Meat is committed to delivering high-quality, satisfying meat experiences, without the need for animals. With cutting-edge technology, chef-driven development, and a clear focus on accessibility, we’re working to make new-meat a staple on plates around the world. 

We believe meat can evolve. And that it should. 

The Bottom Line 

With prices coming down, quality going up, and availability expanding every day, Redefine Meat is no longer just an alternative- it’s a smart, sustainable, and seriously tasty choice. Whether you’re a lifelong meat lover or simply looking to switch things up, now is a great time to explore what’s possible. 

Your plate is ready for something new. Will you be adding new-meat to your cart the next time you shop?