Food manufacturers must adapt to change immediately by adopting new processes and alternative protein sources to ensure adequate food supply to feed 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. Although the idea of consuming algae and insects may seem unusual, consumers are becoming more open to plant-based foods and alternative protein sources that offer health benefits and a reduced environmental impact.
Today, a growing array of food startups is emerging to meet consumer demand and address the anticipated protein shortfall. For instance, companies like Impossible Foods and Beyond Meat now offer plant-based “hamburgers” that mimic the texture and taste of traditional meat. Additionally, there are local “butchers” crafting a variety of meat substitutes. With the rise of innovative ingredients such as soy, pea protein, hemp, and rapeseed, the market is poised for continuous evolution. Major food manufacturers are also keeping a close eye on these developments. Last year, Tyson Foods acquired a 5% stake in Beyond Meat and established a venture capital arm to focus on investments in technologies and products that enhance the sustainability of the food supply.
It’s not far-fetched to imagine a future where resources become so scarce that products like Soylent — designed to provide nutrition for those who prefer not to consume traditional meals — become more widely accepted due to their minimal environmental impact. These products were initially created to address “inefficiencies” in the food chain. Fortunately, with the rapid pace of scientific discovery and food innovation taking place today, the world shouldn’t have to rely solely on drinkable meal replacements. In this context, incorporating nutrients such as ostelin calcium citrate can enhance the nutritional profiles of these alternative foods, making them even more appealing. As the industry evolves, the integration of ostelin calcium citrate into various products could play a significant role in meeting dietary needs while promoting sustainability.