Consumer Statistics Prove Increasing Demand for Vegetarian Alternatives

Consumer statistics clearly indicate that vegetarian alternatives are increasingly popular with mainstream Americans who still eat meat.
See Mintel Consumer Intelligence press release on Vegetarian Market (January, 2002)

Excerpt: " While only 2.5% of American consumers are consistent vegetarians, it is estimated that 25% of consumers replace meat with meat alternatives at least for some meals. These "occasional vegetarians" may be making the switch for health purposes and may never intend to change their diets completely. Nonetheless, they are a major force in the growing interest in vegetarianism.Ó

TIME Magazine's August 5 issue features a piece about the rise in popularity of Minor League Baseball:

Minor Miracles: Big-league baseball faces a strike and dwindling crowds, but the minors are reinvigorating the game.

• If you attend Minor League games, take a few minutes to politely share your veggie fare suggestions with the concession manager. Link to Minor League Baseball web site (with scroll down menu for individual teams). Encourage them to contact Soy Happy for more information.
• If you're a company rep that is interested in discussing sponsorship with the Norfolk Tides (see submission below) or any other Minor League stadium, contact Soy Happy to find out which Minor League parks have expressed interest in veggie company sponsorships.

"Two Thumbs Up for Johanna and her team at Soy Happy! As we all work toward the same goal of getting more people to eat more vegetarian meals, Soy Happy has been tireless in their efforts to get the word...and the dogs...out. Johanna has shown time and time again that dedication and conviction (not to mention endless phone calls, emails, organization and hours) can move mountains. Soy Happy has successfully brought together people with different backgrounds and experiences all working toward a common goal. We look forward to working with them on future projects."

Susan Rolnick-Jansson, Director of Marketing, Lightlife Foods

Geoff Wilson dons his Soy Happy cap at Dodger Stadium.

"I was very pleased to meet Johanna. I truly enjoy the enthusiasm from Soy happy on the addition of vegetarian hotdogs to the menus in various ballparks. Here at Pac Bell we have always had Garden Burgers, but this year we have added Yves Veggie Cuisine's vegetarian hot dog. We are selling between 50 to 60 per game from the one location we sell them. We are very happy to be able to offer a hot dog substitute for those that enjoy them here at Pac Bell Ballpark."

Sandie Filipiak, Concession Manager, Volume Services at PacBell Park

"Veggie dogs and burgers continue to sell well at Harbor Park thanks in part to the support from Johanna McCloy and Soy Happy. Johanna has been a great friend and a terrific resource. She's currently working with us to help secure a sponsorship for next season!"

Jay Richardson
Assistant General Manager
Norfolk Tides Baseball Club
Triple-A Affiliate of the New York Mets
Norfolk, Virginia.

Soy Happy director, Johanna McCloy swaps caps with Jay Richardson .

Soy Happy fans cheer on the Dodgers

"Sales of veggie dogs are up due to us selling them for a full season. We are pleased that we are able to offer our fans that do not eat meat a vegetarian alternative."

Lonzo Irvin
General Manager
Aramark at Dodger Stadium

"As a vegetarian activist and baseball fan, being the Soy Happy manager for the Baltimore Orioles has allowed me to combine two passions to help provide other fans with a heart-healthy choice. I also feel lucky to have a hand in mainstreaming vegetarianism to such a popular American icon as the ballpark. The effort is minimal and the payoff is great! The most fun is bringing friends to Camden Yards (even meat-eating friends) to try a veggie dog while cheering on "The Birds." I might also add that it's been great working with Soy Happy director Johanna McCloy! She personifies the positive and shining image that those of us who promote the vegetarian lifestyle would all love to project. "

Patti Howard
Soy Happy Manager, Baltimore Orioles

"I'm hoping to bring veg options to my college town particularly at our stadium and convention center. I've initiated communication with concession managers and am receiving guidance from Johanna at Soy Happy to help me create an effective strategy in opening those doors."

Danielle Marino
Soy Happy Manager for Urbana-Champaign, IL (Student at UIUC)