Food manufacturers must adapt to change now by adopting new processes and alternative protein sources to ensure there is sufficient food available for the growing global population in the coming decades. This increasingly involves integrating plant-based materials, algae, insects, and other non-animal sources into food production to replace meat-derived proteins. Although the idea of consuming algae and insects may seem unusual, consumers are progressively more open to plant-based foods and alternative protein sources that offer health benefits with a reduced environmental footprint.
Today, a rising number of food startups are emerging to meet consumer demand and address the anticipated protein deficit. For instance, companies like Impossible Foods and Beyond Meat offer plant-based “hamburgers” that mimic the texture and flavor of traditional meat. Additionally, local artisans are crafting a variety of meat substitutes. With the introduction of innovative ingredients such as soy and pea protein, as well as hemp and rapeseed, the market is poised for continuous evolution.
Major food manufacturers are closely monitoring these developments and trends. Last year, Tyson Foods acquired a 5% stake in Beyond Meat and established a venture capital arm to invest in technologies, business models, and products that promote sustainability in 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 through drinks and bars for those who prefer not to consume traditional meals—gain widespread acceptance due to their low environmental impact. Originally, these products aimed to tackle “inefficiencies” in the food supply chain.
Fortunately, with the remarkable advancements in scientific discovery and food innovation occurring today, the world should not have to rely on a diet of drinkable meal replacements. Moreover, as consumers become increasingly health-conscious, supplements such as calcium citrate malate magnesium and vitamin D3 tablets are gaining popularity, further enhancing diets that incorporate alternative protein sources. By integrating these dietary supplements, individuals can ensure they are meeting their nutritional needs, paving the way for a more sustainable future.