08 Sep 2017 --- Nestlé may be better known for its large confectionery portfolio – but it is turning toward vegetarian food with the acquisition of California-based Sweet Earth in a bid to align itself with modern food trends. Nestlé USA has agreed to acquire the plant-based food manufacturer, marking its immediate entry into this rising food segment. The plant-based food market is growing by double-digits and expected to reach CHF5 billion (US$5.2 billion) worldwide by 2020, according to Nestlé.