Oatly Report Finds Cost and Access Are the Top Barriers to Sustainable Food Choices

Oatly's cross-industry report reveals that affordability and access are the top barriers for consumers when it comes to making sustainable food choices, with 53% of respondents highlighting these issues. The study, which involved interviews with food industry leaders and surveys with over 12,000 consumers in Europe, the UK, and the US, found that most people are willing to shop more sustainably as long as they don't have to compromise on taste or pay more. Consumers believe that food manufacturers hold the most responsibility in helping them make healthier and sustainable choices.

The report also suggests that making plant-rich options the default choice could be an effective way to promote healthy and sustainable eating habits, with 38% of respondents supporting this idea. Oatly advocates for subsidy and taxation measures to level the playing field for plant-based diets and has previously endorsed policies aimed at increasing consumption of plant-rich foods. The company will be presenting its findings at Climate Week NYC and calling on various stakeholders to take action to address the barriers identified, emphasizing the importance of collective action in driving positive change in the food system.