As millions turn their attention to health and diets this New Year, and Veganuary expects its biggest ever global participation, 2023 could be the year that developments in alternative proteins brings major changes to the average diet
While plant-based proteins are already widely available, cultivated meat – also known as lab-grown meat – has, so far, only been approved for sale in Singapore. Made from cells taken from animals without the need for slaughter – which can be done without causing them harm – it is grown separately from them in a sterile environment, lowering the risk of infectious diseases.
The alternative proteins market is growing rapidly, with some estimates predicting it could reach US$17.9bn by 2025 and US$1.1 trillion by 2040.
A switch to proteins produced without the cruelty and environmental damage associated with factory farmed meat production could play an important role in the development of a sustainable global food system. It could also support a switch to more regenerative, nature-friendly farming that helps wildlife and soils to thrive.
The Extinction or Regeneration conference, taking place on May 11 and 12, will bring together experts and stakeholders from around the world to share solutions, including the potential of alternative proteins, in support of food system transformation.
Organisers, Compassion in World Farming, have identified the top three developments in cultivated meat to watch out for in 2023:
1. Hybrid proteins – including blends of cultivated meat and plant-based protein – are set for significant investment, with a new innovation centre due to open in Singapore in 2023
2. More commercial players to enter US market following UPSIDE Foods becoming the first cultivated meat company to successfully complete the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA)’s pre-market consultation in November 2022
3. 100 businesses globally are working on cultivated meat – 30 in Europe, a market ripe for expansion, with four of the top ten countries investing in cultivated meat in this region.
Held at the QEII Conference Centre in London and online in May 2023, the event will offer individuals, organisations, companies and other experts the opportunity to present solutions across environmental, public health, food business, food policy, conservation, finance and animal welfare concerns.
For further information about the event and to register, visit: www.extinctionconference.com
