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With an estimated 9.7 million Americans switching to a plant-based diet, new research has revealed the top ten states to live in as a vegan, based on the number of grocery stores catering to vegan diets.
“Safeway, Kroger, Albertsons, Whole Foods and Publix are leading the way in adapting for shifting consumer needs”
The Food Specialty Index looked at the number of popular US grocery stores in each state which offer the most gluten-free, lactose-free, dairy-free, organic, vegan and sugar-free products.
The study found that Safeway, Kroger, Albertsons, Whole Foods and Publix rank as the top five grocery stores to offer the most alternatives for those with food sensitivities and those following a vegan diet, and analysed the number of specialist grocery stores catering to vegans per capita.
Montana reportedly has the highest number of specialist dietary-friendly grocery stores per capita, ahead of Oregon, Washington and Wyoming.
The top 10 states according to grocery stores catering to vegans
- Montana
- Oregon
- Washington
- Wyoming
- Colorado
- Idaho
- Arizona
- Hawaii
- Alaska
- Nevada
Despite its relatively small population, Montana was found to offer the highest number of such grocery stores per capita with nine Safeways, 29 Albertsons, one Whole Foods, and four Krogers, leading the way in products for vegan, organic, dairy-free and sugar-free diets.
Dr Gill Hart, scientific director at YorkTest, said: “The number of people switching to an alternative diet after experiencing food sensitivity has increased hugely in the last few years. This, plus a recent report announcing 9.7 million Americans have turned to a plant-based diet has seen a steep increase in the demand for ‘free-from and organic produce.
“Changing diets and increasingly complex dietary requirements causes great confusion and frustration for many consumers when trying to find food and drink substitutes. Safeway, Kroger, Albertsons, Whole Foods and Publix are leading the way in adapting for shifting consumer needs, and building their reputations as America’s best grocery stores for the food sensitivity market.”
For more information, and to see the full study, visit: https://www.yorktest.com/us/blog/united-states-specialty-diet-index/
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Interviews
As an expert in the field of plant-based diets and food trends, I can confidently delve into the information presented in the provided article. My knowledge extends beyond the surface, allowing me to provide insights into the concepts mentioned.
The article discusses the growing trend of Americans adopting a plant-based diet, with an estimated 9.7 million individuals making the switch. The focus is on identifying the top ten states to live in as a vegan, based on the availability of grocery stores catering to vegan diets. The criteria for evaluation include the variety of products offered, such as gluten-free, lactose-free, dairy-free, organic, vegan, and sugar-free options.
Key concepts in the article:
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News by Region: The article focuses on specific states in the United States, presenting a regional perspective on the growing popularity of plant-based diets.
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Organizations and Brands: Grocery store chains play a crucial role in this context. Safeway, Kroger, Albertsons, Whole Foods, and Publix are highlighted as leading brands that are adapting to shifting consumer needs by offering a diverse range of products catering to various dietary preferences.
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Listed Companies: While the article doesn't explicitly mention listed companies in the stock market sense, it does highlight specific grocery store chains such as Safeway, Kroger, Albertsons, Whole Foods, and Publix, which are key players in the industry.
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Society: The societal shift towards plant-based diets is evident in the increasing number of Americans embracing alternative diets. The article mentions the challenges faced by consumers with food sensitivities and the demand for "free-from and organic produce."
The Food Specialty Index is introduced as the research tool used to analyze the number of specialty grocery stores in each state catering to various dietary needs. The top ten states are listed based on the per capita availability of such stores.
The article emphasizes that Montana leads in this aspect, with the highest number of specialty dietary-friendly grocery stores per capita, surpassing states like Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming. Specific data regarding the number of Safeway, Albertsons, Whole Foods, and Kroger stores in Montana is provided, underlining the state's commitment to offering products for vegan, organic, dairy-free, and sugar-free diets.
Dr. Gill Hart, identified as the scientific director at YorkTest, adds credibility to the information by discussing the increase in people adopting alternative diets due to food sensitivity. The role of grocery stores like Safeway, Kroger, Albertsons, Whole Foods, and Publix is highlighted in meeting the evolving needs of consumers and establishing themselves as leaders in the food sensitivity market.
The article concludes by providing a link to the full study for those seeking more in-depth information on the United States Specialty Diet Index. This demonstrates a commitment to transparency and encourages further exploration of the data.