Despite trends towards dairy alternatives, data has revealed that third of 18-25-year-olds across Europe are now consuming more dairy than they were three years ago.
According to research commissioned by Tate & Lyle, the frequency in which young consumers eat dairy products is high, with 71% eating cheese, 81% drinking milk and 69% eating yoghurt at least once a week.
Furthermore, 77% of 18-35-year-olds said they are happy to consider eating more dairy products if they could try products with less fat, sugar and allergens.
“Our research has uncovered some interesting emerging trends when it comes to how and why consumers are purchasing dairy,” Tate & Lyle market research director Beth Nieman Hacker.
READ MORE: Waitrose gives more freedom to dairy cattle
“It is so important to understand how behaviours, values and appetites are changing and the drivers behind these shifts, so food and drink brands can launch products that meet the needs of consumers today.”
The company’s research also showed that the younger generation prioritises health and has shifted towards a flexitarian diet.
39% of 18-35-year-olds stated they felt dairy products contained too much fat, and 34% claimed that dairy products contained too much sugar.
Additionally, younger consumers are more likely to eat dairy alternatives – with 25% eating non-dairy cheese, 33% eating non-dairy ice cream and 46% non-dairy milk, at least once a week.
Tate & Lyle dairy category development manager Delphine Forejt added: “Our research found that nearly three-quarters of 18-35-year-olds who are eating less dairy are happy to consider eating more dairy products if they could try products with less fat and sugars.
Click here to sign up to Grocery Gazette’s free daily email newsletter
