Food manufacturers must adapt to change now—embracing new processes and alternative protein sources—to ensure there is sufficient food to support the world’s growing population in the decades ahead. This increasingly involves integrating plants, algae, insects, and other non-animal sources into food production as substitutes for meat-based proteins. While the idea of consuming algae and insects might seem unconventional, consumers are increasingly open to plant-based foods and alternative protein sources that offer health benefits with a reduced environmental footprint. An emerging array of food startups is rising to meet consumer demand and address the expected protein shortfall.
Today, consumers can enjoy plant-based “hamburgers” that replicate the texture and flavor of traditional meat, thanks to companies like Impossible Foods and Beyond Meat. There are also local artisans who craft a variety of meat alternatives. With the ongoing development of ingredients such as soy and pea protein, along with hemp and rapeseed, the market will continue to evolve. Major food manufacturers are closely monitoring these trends. For instance, Tyson Foods recently acquired a 5% stake in Beyond Meat and established a venture capital arm to focus investments on technologies, business models, and products that enhance the sustainability of the food supply.
It’s not far-fetched to envision a future where resources become so scarce that products like Soylent—designed to provide nutrition in the form of drinks and bars for those who prefer not to consume traditional meals—gain widespread acceptance due to their minimal environmental impact. Initially, these companies aimed to address “inefficiencies” in the food chain. However, with the rapid pace of scientific discovery and food innovation occurring today, we shouldn’t have to resort to a diet reliant on drinkable meal replacements.
Additionally, as people look for ways to enhance their diets, they may wonder, “Can you take calcium citrate with food?” The answer is yes; taking calcium citrate with food can improve absorption, making it a beneficial addition to meals. As the food industry evolves and embraces new nutritional options, consumers will continue to seek out products that not only satisfy their hunger but also align with their health and environmental values.