Why protein diversification matters
In a world where climate change, food insecurity, and supply chain disruptions are the norm, Europe must rethink its approach to agriculture. Protein diversification plays a central role in this transformation. By expanding the variety of protein sources - plant-based, microbial, and cultivated - Europe can reduce import dependencies, improve food security, and open new income streams for farmers.
It’s time to build a more competitive, resilient, and sustainable food system. EIT Food Protein Diversification Think Tank presents "Towards a Resilient and Sustainable Future: The Role of Protein Diversification in the EU Agri-Food Sector." This paper highlights how diversifying protein sources can unlock opportunities for Europe, ensuring food affordability, reducing import dependencies, and boosting sustainability and competitiveness.
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Why Protein Diversification?
Protein diversification is essential for creating a more resilient, sustainable, and competitive food system in Europe. Here’s why:
- Food Security – Diversifying protein sources helps make nutritious food more affordable and reduces import reliance.
- Sustainability – Alternative proteins lower environmental impact and support Europe’s climate goals.
- Economic Growth – New income streams for farmers and innovation opportunities enhance Europe’s global competitiveness.
Curious about how protein diversification can transform Europe’s agri-food sector?
Key themes covered in the Paper:
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Food Security & Affordability:As food prices rise, 8.3% of Europeans cannot afford a protein-rich meal every day. Protein diversification can help make nutritious food more affordable for all.
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Resilience:Europe currently imports the majority of its plant protein sources, increasing vulnerability. Diversifying production strengthens food sovereignty and supply chain stability.
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Competitiveness:European start-ups are leading innovation in alternative proteins, with €1.45B raised in 2023 alone. This emerging market boosts Europe's global leadership in the agri-food sector.
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Sustainability:Diversifying protein sources aligns with the EU Green Deal and Farm to Fork Strategy, reducing environmental impact while supporting local farmers with sustainable income opportunities.
Towards a Resilient and Sustainable Future: The Role of Protein Diversification in the EU Agri-Food Sector
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