As global populations rise and protein demand increases, the food industry must innovate to ensure a sustainable future. At ProVeg International’s 2024 New Food Conference, industry leaders explored the evolving role of alternative proteins in addressing these challenges.
Among the many insights shared, a handful stood out as pivotal for food industry stakeholders committed to fostering a more sustainable food system. So what do we need to do? Let’s look at two of the most important.
Steps for a sustainable food industry
Support farmers in the protein transition
Farmers are at the heart of the shift from animal-based to plant-based and alternative proteins, but they need substantial support to make this transition successful. Education on growing new protein crops, providing fair, long-term contracts, and building infrastructure are essential for minimising risks and ensuring their economic viability. As Jack Vera, Counsellor for Agriculture at the German Embassy emphasised at the New Food Conference, collaboration across the value chain – between retailers, brands, and governments – is key to creating a smooth, profitable transition for farmers. They are the backbone of the global food system, and their involvement is critical to ensuring the protein transition is both sustainable and economically sound.
Shift the narrative to food security
While sustainability remains vital, the conversation around alternative proteins must increasingly focus on food security. Global food systems are under pressure, and policymakers are more receptive to messaging that frames alternative proteins as essential to food security. This shift in narrative highlights the need for resilient food systems capable of providing affordable, nutritious food while reducing dependence on fragile supply chains.
According to Ivo Rzegotta of GFI Europe, who presented on this topic, policymakers are now more likely to support the alt protein sector when it is positioned as a solution to food security challenges, reducing regulatory barriers and increasing acceptance of innovations like plant-based and cellular agriculture.
“The alternative protein industry faces pressure from policymakers, like naming bans and cellular agriculture bans. With all this, we need to adjust our messaging. We should take a more holistic view that emphasises food security, as well as the economic benefits and role of farmers,” said Ivo Rzegotta, Public Affairs Manager, GFI Europe.
Securing a resilient future
The New Food Conference underscored that collaboration, innovation, and strategic communication are essential to the future of alternative proteins. By supporting farmers and reframing the policy conversation around food security, the food industry can play a key role in driving a sustainable protein transition.
But that’s not all – uncover the remaining steps by reading the full article on ProVeg’s New Food Hub. For more support on your alternative protein strategy, you can get in touch with ProVeg’s experts at [email protected].
