Food manufacturers must adapt to change urgently—embracing new processes and alternative protein sources—to ensure sufficient food supply for the expanding global population in the coming decades. This increasingly involves integrating plants, algae, insects, and other non-animal sources into food production as substitutes for meat-based proteins. While the notion of consuming algae and insects may seem unconventional, consumers are becoming more receptive to plant-based foods and alternative protein sources that offer health benefits with reduced environmental impact. Currently, a growing number of food startups are emerging to meet consumer demand and address the anticipated protein shortfall.
For instance, consumers can now enjoy plant-based “hamburgers” that replicate the texture and flavor of traditional meat, thanks to companies like Impossible Foods and Beyond Meat. Additionally, local “butchers” are crafting a variety of meat alternatives by hand. As innovative ingredients such as soy and pea protein, alongside hemp and rapeseed, continue to develop, the market will evolve further. Major food manufacturers are closely observing these trends and movements. Last year, Tyson Foods acquired a 5% stake in Beyond Meat and established a venture capital arm to focus its investments on technologies, business models, and products aimed at enhancing the sustainability of the food supply.
It’s not unreasonable to consider that one day, the world may face such a depletion of resources that products like Soylent—designed to provide nutrition through drinks and bars for those who prefer not to consume traditional meals—become commonplace due to their minimal environmental footprint. Initially, these products were intended to address “inefficiencies” in the food chain. However, thanks to the rapid advancements in scientific discovery and food innovation today, it seems unlikely that society will need to rely solely on drinkable meal replacements.
In this context, products like Cal Mag from Solaray could play a significant role in ensuring that consumers receive essential nutrients as they transition to alternative protein sources. As the landscape of food production shifts, incorporating supplements like Cal Mag may help people maintain balanced nutrition in their diets that increasingly include plant-based options. As we move forward, the combination of innovative food sources and nutritional supplements, such as those offered by Solaray, will be crucial in meeting the dietary needs of a growing population while minimizing environmental impact.