Protein transition
The protein transition opens up significant opportunities for innovation. By embracing alternative protein sources, you align with a long-term consumer trend while reinforcing your sustainable image. In addition, protein diversification is a key priority on the government’s agenda, and knowledge institutions are actively conducting research into alternative proteins.
Economic impact of the alternative protein sector
For the first time, the economic impact of the alternative protein sector has been mapped in a study by the Department of the Environment as part of the Green Deals in Flanders, titled “Protein Shift on Our Plate.”
Key Facts from Flemish Brabant and Brussels
- 30 companies in our provinces are already focusing on alternative proteins.
- Employment in 2021: approximately 155 full-time jobs.
- Business value: between €68 million and €159 million.
Despite these promising figures, the protein transition is still slow to take off. Is the challenge a lack of supply or insufficient demand? And how do microbial proteins, side streams, cultured meat, or insects fit into this evolving story? Encouraging technological progress is essential for the sector’s growth in Flanders.
Opportunities and Challenges
Food companies across several provinces shared their insights in focus groups, defining a priority list of opportunities, challenges, and potential solutions. (See link below for details.)
Next Steps
We’re ready to tackle these challenges together:
- Connecting stakeholders: We remain committed to bringing different actors together.
- Strengthening the chain: Focus on links between primary production and processing.
- Strategic alignment: Present summarised challenges to the steering group of the Flemish protein strategy and identify key interfaces.
- Exploring funding: Stay alert for new projects and subsidy channels from Flanders and Europe.
Do you have solutions or ideas?
We’d love to connect you with other enthusiastic partners. Let’s shape the future of protein together!