Food manufacturers must adapt to change at this moment—embracing new processes and alternative protein sources—to ensure there is enough food to sustain the world’s expanding 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 idea of consuming algae and insects may seem unconventional, consumers are progressively more open to plant-based foods and various alternative protein sources that offer health benefits with reduced environmental impact.
Today, a rising number of food startups are emerging to meet consumer demand and address the anticipated protein deficit. Consumers can now enjoy a plant-based “hamburger” that mimics the texture and taste of meat, thanks to companies like Impossible Foods and Beyond Meat. Additionally, local “butchers” are crafting a variety of meat substitutes. With the advent of innovative ingredients such as soy and pea protein, as well as hemp and rapeseed, the market is continually evolving.
Major food manufacturers are closely monitoring these trends and developments as well. For instance, Tyson Foods acquired a 5% stake in Beyond Meat last year and established a venture capital arm to invest in technologies, business models, and products that enhance the sustainability of the food supply. It’s not far-fetched to anticipate a future where resources become so scarce that products like Soylent—which provides nutrition through drinks and bars 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” in the food chain.
Fortunately, with the remarkable pace of scientific discovery and food innovation occurring today, the world is unlikely to have to depend on a diet of drinkable meal replacements. In this context, it’s also worth noting that consumers seeking to enhance their nutritional intake may consider now calcium citrate tablets as a convenient supplement to support their dietary needs, alongside the variety of alternative protein options available. As the food landscape continues to change, the emphasis on sustainable practices and health-conscious choices will likely shape our future eating habits.