Beef and chicken top animal protein sources, says NPD

More than
60 per cent of Americans say they eat animal protein in a typical day said the report, entitled "Protein Perceptions and Needs."

Topping the list of the animal proteins considered the best
sources of protein are beef and chicken, then fish which is distantly followed
by others,  including pork, ham, shellfish, lamb and bacon, according to the report.  The report also finds that
consumers, generally, are less likely to cite dairy and eggs as the best
sources of protein when compared to animal protein.

To better define protein consumers, the report segments
them into three categories: Traditional Protein Purists, Flexible Protein
Users, and Knowledgeable but Indifferent. Traditional Protein Purists are much
more likely to consider animal proteins as their main source of protein. Consumers in this
segment are content eating animal proteins and do not feel the need to seek out
protein alternatives.

“While Traditional Protein Purists stick to their
traditional meat sources for protein, they are also likely to have more meals
that are rounded out with vegetables and grains,” said Darren Seifer, NPD food
and beverage industry analyst, in a news release. “Unlike Flexible Protein Users, it would be
difficult to convince these protein consumers to use a different protein source
than animal protein. For food manufacturers and retailers to reach this group,
it’s a matter of understanding and reflecting their needs in product
development and marketing messaging.”