The British are giving up processed "plant-based meat." They are choosing beans and tofu.

The plant-based product market in the United Kingdom is undergoing a noticeable transformation. Data from NielsenQ analyzed in the report Britain Backs Beans shows that in the first half of 2026, the volume sales of beans, legumes, tofu, and tempeh increased by 7.3% (and their market value by 10.1%) compared to the same period last year.

The largest increases were recorded in the following categories:

• Tempeh: sales increased by as much as 71.6%
• Vegetable and legume-based dishes: an increase of 24.6%
• Raw beans, peas, and lentils: an increase of 16.7%
• Tofu: an increase of 7.2%

At the same time, products designed to directly mimic the taste and texture of meat (so-called fake meat) saw a sales decline of 4.3% (and a value decrease of 2.7%).

Experts emphasize that this does not indicate a turning away from plant-based diets by consumers, but rather a change in their habits. The British are looking for less processed products that are high in fiber, healthier, and above all, cheaper.