Zhi Tong Cai Jing·2025-10-20 13:05Core Insights - The plant-based milk market, once a rapidly growing consumer category, is experiencing a decline due to increased competition and heightened price sensitivity among consumers [1] - Sales in the U.S. alternative milk sector fell by 4.4% last year, reaching $2.9 billion, marking the first decline in four years, with no recovery expected by 2025 [1] - Traditional dairy products are seeing faster growth compared to plant-based alternatives, with various types of milk, including lactose-free and whole milk, outpacing oat, almond, coconut, and soy substitutes [1] Company Insights - Oatly's stock has significantly dropped since its IPO in 2021, falling from a peak of $58 to the low teens [2] - Beyond Meat has also seen a drastic decline in its stock price, from nearly $240 to below $1 [2] - The market trend is shifting towards high-protein and gut health products, prompting mergers and acquisitions, such as PepsiCo's acquisition of Poppi and Danone's attempt to acquire Lifeway Foods, although the latter deal ultimately failed [2]