RENNET MARKET ANALYSIS

Stringent regulations regarding the use of animal-derived rennet are indeed restraining the growth of the rennet market. Many countries and federal bodies have implemented strict guidelines in the recent past to curb the use of animal rennet owing to animal welfare concerns. For example, the European Union passed a directive in 2008 that banned the use of animal rennet in cheese production and promoted the shift to microbial or plant-based rennet. This was a major setback for the traditional cheese makers in Europe who relied on animal rennet. Several cheese varieties that require animal rennet could not be produced as per the original recipes anymore. The adoption of alternatives also impacted the taste and texture of some popular cheese varieties.

Market Opportunities: Scope for development of alternative vegetarian rennet options

The demand for vegetarian and plant-based food options has been steadily rising in recent years. More consumers are looking to reduce their meat consumption or eliminate it altogether for health, ethical, or environmental reasons.  As the market for vegetarian cheeses and other non-meat foods expands to meet this demand, alternative rennet options not derived from animal sources could see significant growth opportunities.