What Happened to Sweet Earth? Inside Nestlé’s Quiet Retreat From Plant-Based Products

Nestlé acquired the plant-based brand Sweet Earth in 2017, which had gained popularity for its vegetarian products like Veggie Lovers Pizza and Benevolent Bacon. However, in recent years, the entire Sweet Earth product line has disappeared, with the brand's Instagram account empty and its website redirecting to Nestlé's homepage. The closure of the California facility that manufactured Sweet Earth's plant-based meals in 2022 signaled a decline in Nestlé's plant-based portfolio, with several vegan products and brands being discontinued.

Despite the retreat from plant-based products, Nestlé still offers a selection of vegan options in its portfolio. Brands like Garden of Life provide organic, plant-based supplements, while Coffee-Mate and Natural Bliss offer dairy-free creamer options. Additionally, popular products like Nescafé's espresso concentrates and Starbucks' coffee pods are vegan-friendly, although some Starbucks ready-to-drink beverages may be discontinued. While several plant-based brands have come and gone from Nestlé's portfolio, the company continues to offer vegan alternatives to cater to changing consumer preferences.