Farm Progress America, July 8, 2024

Mike Pearson tells listeners that The McPlant burger at McDonald's is coming to an end.

The McPlant burger was a test in San Francisco, Calif. and Dallas, Texas.

The announcement was made last night that the McPlant Burger developed in part with Beyond Meat didn't work out. The core customers of McDonald's is not seeking a plant-based meat.

One reason it didn't work out is the cost. On average, the alternative meat costs 77 percent more than traditional meat. And for chicken, it can cost up to 150 percent more.

While, alternative meat took off initially, it's experiencing a slow down. The industry has seen a 26 percent decrease in unit sales from 2021-2023.

Another reason for the slow down has been the taste, texture and overall satisfaction compared to traditional meat.

While, alternative meat demand is fall, the same can't be said for alternative plant dairy products demand is increasing.

Farm Progress America is a daily look at key issues in agriculture. It is produced and presented by Mike Pearson, farm broadcaster and host of This Week in Agribusiness .