Food manufacturers must adapt to change now—embracing new processes and innovative protein sources—to ensure there is sufficient food to sustain the world’s expanding population in the coming decades. This increasingly involves integrating plants, algae, insects, and other non-animal alternatives into food production to replace traditional meat-based proteins. While consuming algae and insects may seem unconventional, consumers are becoming more open to plant-based foods and alternative protein sources that offer health benefits while minimizing environmental impact.
Today, an increasing number of food startups are emerging to meet consumer demand and address the expected protein gap. For instance, companies like Impossible Foods and Beyond Meat offer plant-based “hamburgers” that mimic the texture and flavor of meat. Additionally, there are local “butchers” creating a variety of handcrafted meat substitutes. With the introduction of new ingredients such as soy, pea protein, hemp, and rapeseed, the market is set for continued evolution.
Major food manufacturers are closely observing these trends. Last year, Tyson Foods acquired a 5% stake in Beyond Meat and established a venture capital arm focused on investing in technologies, business models, and products that support the sustainability of the food supply. It’s not far-fetched to imagine a future where resources are so scarce that products like Soylent—nutritional drinks and bars designed for those who prefer not to eat traditional meals—gain wider acceptance due to their minimal environmental impact. Originally, these products aimed to address “inefficiencies” within the food chain, much like how calcium citrate laxative helps manage digestive issues.
Fortunately, thanks to the remarkable pace of scientific discovery and food innovation today, the world shouldn’t have to rely on a diet of drinkable meal replacements. With ongoing advancements, the food industry can continue to explore diverse and sustainable sources of nutrition, ensuring that options like calcium citrate laxative and plant-based proteins coexist in a balanced and health-conscious food ecosystem.