Studies & Numbers

GFI 2023 State of the Industry Reports

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2023 GFI Reports: Cultivated Meat and Fermentation Industries Growing Despite Drop in Investments

The Good Food Institute has released the 2023 State of the Industry Reports for the alt protein industry. These annual reports provide a global analysis of each sector’s commercial landscape, investments, scientific progress, and government and regulatory developments. The following are the top highlights in cultivated meat and fermentation for 2023, providing an overview of the key developments in these industries. The complete reports can be found here. Cultivated Meat Investments Cultivated meat and seafood companies raised $225.9 million globally in 2023, bringing the total (since 2013) to $3.1 billion.  $225.9 million is a fraction of the investments in technologies to reduce emissions and address climate goals like renewable energy.  However, investments in the sector were significantly lower than the $922.3 million capital injection of …

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a plate with a steak takes center stage, representing the connection between meat consumption and environmental degradation Generative AI

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European Environment Agency Urges Plant-Based Transition to Avoid Catastrophic Effects of Climate Change

A new report by the European Environment Agency (EEA) has underlined the importance of a shift towards plant-based foods to address climate change. The European Climate Risk Assessment report notes that the Farm to Fork Strategy and international dietary guidelines call for reduced animal product consumption and a shift towards plant-based diets. The authors find that this would reduce freshwater consumption and dependency on imported animal feed, while achieving healthier dietary patterns. Reducing animal product consumption would also free up a substantial quantity of cereal crops for human consumption. This is notable and significant since plentiful research suggests that climate change will negatively impact food security. The report finds a high probability that climate change will have substantial, critical, or catastrophic impacts on livestock rearing, …

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Could Alternative Proteins Address Undernutrition in Low- and Middle-Income Countries?

A supplement published in Current Developments in Nutrition (a journal of the American Society of Nutrition) has explored the potential of alternative proteins to provide sufficient protein intake for populations in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) without the negative environmental impacts associated with animal agriculture. The supplement features eight articles discussing different aspects of the topic: Suitability of Alternative Protein Foods for Agroecological Approaches to Address Nutrition in Low- and Middle-Income Countries — Molly Gordon et al. use agroecological principles, which emphasize ecology, local knowledge, and traditions, to determine the suitability of different alternative protein sources in LMICs. Alternative Proteins in Low- and Middle-Income Countries Face Questionable Future: Will Technology Negate Bennett’s Law? — Bennett’s Law states that when incomes rise in developing countries, consumers …

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Planted fermented steak

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2024 NPD Report Says F&B Sector is Ramping Up Innovation Efforts Despite Challenges

A new 2024 NPD report conducted by global technology company TraceGains reveals emerging trends in new product development and a significant increase in innovation despite the F&B industry facing various challenges. The survey, which questioned 261 small and large brands worldwide, shows that 76% of respondents plan to increase their NPD spending in 2024, a 12% increase from the previous year. 32% of brands banking on plant alternatives When asked about which food innovation would have the most potential to drive significant industry change in 2024, more than half (60%) of brands said “better for you” formulations would be the main innovation driver, followed by sustainable packaging and plant-based alternatives (32%). Meanwhile, 26% said they would prioritize water and / or carbon-neutral strategies. ESG initiatives, …

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burger Symplicity Foods

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An Imminent Clean Food Revolution? Decade-Long Study Finds Clean-Label Products Set to Dominate in Next 2 Years

Research carried out by Ingredion, spanning over a decade, heralds a significant shift within the European food industry, with clean-label products poised to revolutionise company portfolios in the imminent future. Dubbed ATLAS, the comprehensive study was orchestrated in collaboration with Clear Seas Research, shedding light on an overwhelming consensus among European manufacturers: a staggering 99% perceive clean-label products not merely as an advantage but as a cornerstone of their business strategy. Although there is no formal definition, the term ‘clean-label’ generally refers to short lists of recognisable, natural ingredients. According to the study, clean-label products are projected to constitute more than 70% of portfolios within the next two years—a substantial leap from 52% in 2021— underscoring a pivotal movement towards transparency and ingredient simplicity. The …

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Fresh bamboo shoots

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Another Sustainable Alt Protein Source: Bamboo Shoots Found to Contain Proteins Similar to Cow’s Milk

Bamboo shoots, the edible part of some bamboo plants, are gaining recognition as a source of essential amino acids, according to a recent study by researchers from the China National Bamboo Research Centre. Titled “Bamboo shoot and its food applications in the last decade: an undervalued edible resource from forest to feed future people,” the study highlights bamboo shoots’ nutritional composition and health benefits, noting their protein content is “similar to cow’s milk.” Bamboo as a nutritional powerhouse In an attempt to demonstrate how bamboo plants can be an alternative to conventional foods, the researchers found that bamboo shoots are rich in seven essential amino acids, carbohydrates (mainly fibers), iron, and vitamins while low in fat, making them a valuable source of nutrition. Furthermore, similar studies …

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Report: Alternative Proteins Could Significantly Impact Farming in New Zealand

A report published as part of the Protein Futures NZ project (funded through the Our Land and Water National Science Challenge) has found that alternative proteins could have a significant impact on farming in New Zealand. The report outlines four alternative protein scenarios: Demand for alt proteins continues to increase but does not significantly affect animal protein supply chains. Growth is slow due to technical barriers. This scenario is described as unlikely due to the current level of innovation, interest, and investment in the sector. Demand for alt proteins continues and precision fermentation takes off. Consumer acceptance is driven by sustainability concerns. However, the development of cultivated products is stalled due to technical barriers. Plant-based products take off, and some of the barriers facing cultivated …

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Decade-Long Study Reveals Complex Relationship Between Americans and Plant-Rich Diets

A comprehensive study conducted by Virginia Tech’s Department of Human Nutrition, Foods, and Exercise, spanning over a decade from 2012 to 2022, sheds light on the complex attitudes and behaviors of American adults towards plant-rich diets. Despite acknowledging the health and environmental benefits of such diets, the willingness to adopt them remains limited among the populace. The research, published in the journal Nutrients, shows a growing recognition of the advantages of plant-based eating habits for both personal health and environmental sustainability. However, this awareness does not fully translate into dietary choices. The study reveals that while a substantial percentage of Americans view plant proteins as healthier compared to animal proteins, the consumption of meat remains prevalent across the country. Katherine Consavage Stanley, the study’s lead …

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a plate with a steak takes center stage, representing the connection between meat consumption and environmental degradation Generative AI

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Groundbreaking Harvard Study Outlines Clear Path to Reducing Global Livestock Sector’s Emissions by 61%

In a recent collaborative research effort led by scientists from Harvard University, New York University, Leiden University, and Oregon State University, a report has been published, presenting a clear path for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the global livestock sector. The report, which claims to be the first in its field, delineates a trajectory aligning with the Paris Agreement’s climate goals, stipulating a 61% decrease in emissions by 2036. Spearheaded by Dr. Helen Harwatt, a food and climate policy fellow at Harvard Law School’s Brooks McCormick Jr. Animal Law & Policy Program, the research highlights the critical role of the livestock sector in climate change mitigation efforts. “The research findings provide much-needed clarity on a key question – what role should the livestock play …

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KARANA jackfruit expands into retail in singapore, debuts at plantega in NYC

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Multiethnic Asian Survey Reveals Consumer Preference for Plant-Based Proteins Over Cultivated Meat and Insect-Based Products

A unique multiethnic Asian population survey supported by the Singapore Ministry of Education Academic Fund Tier 1, exploring consumer acceptance of alternative proteins, shows that participants are most willing to consume plant-based meat, over cultivated meat and insect-based products. Conducted among 1,224 adult Singaporean citizens — 75% Chinese, 15% Indian, and 10% Malay participants — the research delves into the drivers and barriers to consuming alternative protein foods to shed light on ways to promote more sustainable diets. Through an online survey, researchers identified various factors influencing alternative protein food consumption, including familiarity and acceptance, attitudinal factors such as food neophobia, drug residue concerns, zoonotic diseases,  food curiosity, “unnaturalness,” and distrust in gene technology, and lastly, willingness to pay for these alternatives. Plant-based leads the way The …

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BENEO unveils innovations in plant-based beef alternatives

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Study: 65% of Germans in Favour of Cultivated Meat, 49% Want More Alternatives to Meat, Fish, Eggs & Dairy

A 2024 survey conducted in Germany by the research firm YouGov and the think tank Good Food Institute Europe has revealed a growing appetite among Germans for plant-based meat, plant-based dairy, and cultivated meat.  The survey, which engaged 2,105 participants aged 18 in a representative sample of the German population, however, uncovered that 58% of Germans consider that they eat too many animal products while 49% of the respondents think more alternatives to meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products should be available. Growing interest in alternatives Regarding a shift to plant-based diets, 46% of respondents indicated a desire to reduce their consumption of animal products over the next two years. Specifically, 30% said they want to consume more plant-based meat, while 27% showed interest in …

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LoveRaw named one of Europe's fastest-growing companies in FT1000 ranking

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LoveRaw Named One of Europe’s Fastest-Growing Companies in FT 1000 Ranking

UK-based vegan chocolate brand LoveRaw has been featured in the FT 1000, the Financial Times’ annual ranking of Europe’s fastest-growing companies compiled in collaboration with Statista. LoveRaw has been included after growing its CAGR by 61% from 2019 to 2021, despite a challenging economic environment. The brand offers four popular chocolate ranges — Cre&m Wafer Bars, Peanut Butter Cups, Nutty Choc Balls, and the Peanut Caramel Bar. The products are available at major retailers such as Tesco, Asda, Waitrose, Ocado, Co-op, and Whole Foods Market. “Being recognized and ranked in the FT 1000 marks a pinnacle moment in our journey, a testament to the remarkable dedication and innovation of our team, both past and present,” said Rimi Thapar, co-founder and CEO of LoveRaw. Tesco accelerator …

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Over 69% of Dutch People Eat Meatless Dinners at Least Once a Week

New research from Statistics Netherlands — conducted in partnership with the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) and the Netherlands Nutrition Centre — has found that most Dutch people (69.2%) eat at least one meatless dinner per week. Vegetarian dinners are eaten by many people (42.6%) once or twice a week, with a smaller group (21.7%) choosing them three or more times a week and 5% eating them every day. 0.5% of people eat dinners with no animal products at all. In total, about a quarter of dinners consumed in the Netherlands (1.8 out of 7 weekly meals) are meat-free. Those with higher levels of education tend to eat meatless meals more often. 45% of those with a university education eat at …

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Freedom Food Alliance

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The Freedom Food Alliance Publishes In-Depth Report Exposing Misinformation in the Global Food Industry

A recent publication by The Freedom Food Alliance, titled “Harvesting Denial, Distractions, & Deception: Revealing Animal Agriculture’s Disinformation Strategies and Exploring Solutions,” uncovers the extensive disinformation campaigns that impact our global food systems. This in-depth analysis demonstrates how such campaigns influence public opinion and policy, detrimentally affecting efforts towards sustainability and addressing climate change. The Freedom Food Alliance is a consumer advocacy organization founded by Robbie Lockie, co-founder of Plant Based News. The organization aims to increase transparency and accountability in the food industry by providing consumers with accurate, science-backed information while exposing misinformation. The report, which is the culmination of a year of extensive research, reveals the tactics employed by the animal agriculture industry, including the reported manipulation of social media through artificial intelligence …

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Plant-based diets can free up land for bioenergy and carbon capture

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Plant-Based Diets Could Free Up Enough Land for Bioenergy and Carbon Capture

A study by researchers at Leiden University in the Netherlands has calculated that if the world transitioned to a more plant-based diet, enough land could be freed up to make Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS) a viable option. Bioenergy (using crops to generate energy) has long been considered a way to address climate change, since crops take carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere when they grow. It has been suggested that when the crops are used to produce energy, the resulting carbon dioxide could be permanently stored underground; in this way, the process of generating energy could actually reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. However, bioenergy has been criticized as it requires large areas of land and a lot of …

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New report shows 42% of Japanese consumers would try cultivated meat,

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New Report Finds 42% of Japanese Consumers Would Try Cultivated Meat, While 58% Are Not Familiar with Cell-Based Foods

APAC Society for Cellular Agriculture (APAC-SCA) has released a new report revealing that 42% of Japanese consumers are open to trying cultivated meat or seafood products, “as long as they have been proven safe.”  The report Prospect of Cultivated Meat & Seafood in Japan was commissioned by APAC-SCA and analyzed by Akira Igata, Project Lecturer at the Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology, The University of Tokyo and Director of the Japan Association for Cellular Agriculture (JACA). The researchers surveyed 1,000 Japanese consumers in May 2023, aiming to gain insights into their perceptions and behavioral trends related to cultivated meat and seafood.  A strong emphasis on safety The findings show that 44% of respondents considered the presence of Japanese government regulations as the most important factor …

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Australian plant-based meat category sees significant changes

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Australian Plant-Based Meat Category Has 3X More Products Than in 2017

Research by alt protein think tank Food Frontier has indicated that there have been significant changes in the volume and type of products available in the Australian plant-based meat category in recent years. In 2017, major retailers stocked less than five plant-based meat brands made by Australian or New Zealand-based companies; this has now risen to over 30. The number of products in the category has increased threefold, from under 90 to almost 300. As consumers seek more convenient options, products like nuggets, mince, deli slices, and meatballs are becoming increasingly available. Meat alternatives that are suitable for a variety of dishes — such as chunks, strips, and whole cuts — are also becoming more popular, though there are still relatively few of these products …

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Pioneering UK Interdisciplinary Study Will Track Impact of Cultured Meat on Society

Proponents of cultivated meat argue that it has the potential to feed the world sustainably and ethically, thus positively affecting the planet, human well-being, and the welfare of animals. Nevertheless, there are still uncertainties surrounding its large-scale production and the potential wider consequences on society and the environment. To shed light on these questions, a new interdisciplinary study brings together experts from law, sociology, and biochemical engineering to track the impact of cultivated meat on society.  The research, selected for an APEX Award, is funded by the British Academy, the Royal Academy of Engineering, and the Royal Society with support from the Leverhulme Trust. A study with multiple tasks The new interdisciplinary research project aims to identify and mitigate potential risks associated with the broader availability of cell-based …

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Study: Reflecting on Behavioural Nudges Could Reduce Meat Consumption

A study conducted in a German university cafeteria has investigated the potential of behavioural nudges to reduce meat consumption. Nudge theory states that the design of an environment can influence the choices people make. For example, healthier or more ethical foods can be placed in a more visible position, encouraging consumers to choose them over less beneficial foods. However, some studies indicate that nudges alone may not be enough to bring about significant behaviour change. The new study aimed to determine whether adding an extra step to the process, where participants reflect on their feelings after seeing the nudge, could decrease meat consumption. In the first week, the baseline dietary behaviours of 129 students were measured, before a labelling nudge was introduced in the cafeteria …

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Growthwell Foods

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Report Finds Surprising Attitudes to Plant-Based Meat in Southeast Asia

A report commissioned by GFI APAC and conducted by the Good Growth Co. has studied consumer attitudes to plant-based meat in six Southeast Asian countries — Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore. Unlike in many Western countries, only a small percentage of consumers (21% on average) said they were looking to reduce their meat consumption. In fact, almost a quarter of participants wanted to eat more meat. However, the consumers who ate the most meat were also the most enthusiastic about plant-based alternatives, while those who consumed less meat were more skeptical about plant-based products. This indicates that, unlike in the West, consumers are looking to diversify their protein consumption rather than replace meat. High levels of awareness 44% of participants said they …

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