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• Examination of Sustainable Consumer Behaviour in the Market of Milk and Milk Subtitutes

  3-17

  Nikolett Balsa-Budai

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  543

  The purpose of this study was to discover the impact of the transitioning consumer habits on the dairy industry’s situation and products. The dairy sector faces more and more challenges, such as sustainability concerns and the appearance of substance alternatives. Milk, as a product, is considered a fundamental component of our nutrition; therefore, the industry needs to keep up with consumer preferences. In connection with the plant-based drinks and milk alternatives (clean milk, laboratory milk, egg-based milk replacements) that are getting more and more popular, the question may arise: to what extent can milk-based products be replaced? Is there a product which, from all aspects, is a perfect alternative to milk? In order to answer these questions, we studied the current market position of milk, and the relevant challenges of the industry, mainly from the aspect of sustainability. Then we examined the characteristics and consumer perception of the plant-based drinks that are aimed to replace it. Finally, we took a look at the possible market situation of another replacement product, clean milk, which is expected to be released soon. The results called our attention to that the milk industry is probably awaiting transformation where new technological solutions, such as the spread of more ethical animal husbandry, are set to become the main direction. Such product will also represent a higher value for consumers, which will impact the price of these products. Although plant-based drinks’ market share shows dynamic growth, currently, there is no product available that can perfectly replace milk from all points of view. However, it is essential to note that milk replacements produced by various innovative technologies will expectably appear on the market as new competitors.
  
  JEL Codes: Q13, O13, O33, A13