Challenges in the Plant-based Dairy Alternatives Market: A Case Study of Ripened Rennet Cheese Alternatives in the Context of Sustainable Development Policy Principles

Objective: To determine whether the production and consumption of plant-based dairy alternatives (PBDAs) aligns with sustainable development policy and to identify challenges on the path to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Research Design & Methods: A review and critical analysis of the literature, official documents, reports, food labels, and legal regulations. Synthesis and logical reasoning methods are also employed. Findings: Contradictions have been identified between the principles of sustainable development policy and the directions the current PBDAs market is taking vis-à-vis ripened rennet cheese substitutes. The low nutritional value of PBDAs, inefficient resource utilisation in the production of non-nutritive foods, and challenges arising from the need to sustainably feed a growing population may all hinder the achievement of SDGs. Implications / Recommendations: The challenges identified can be a subject of research into consumer acceptance of plant-based alternatives. Further development is required to increase the adequacy and economic availability of PBDAs. Contribution: The article sheds new light on the development of the PBDAs market in the context of the convergence of this trend with the principles of sustainable development policy.