Expertise
Food ingredients & alternative proteins
As protein consumption in developed countries continues to rise, mounting public interest in animal welfare and environmental conservation has given birth to a rise in responsible consumption. Consumers increasingly want to know where their food comes from, what it is made of, and how sustainably it was sourced.
At the same time, developing countries are increasingly relying on alternative proteins as a viable solution to meet their growing nutritional needs without overburdening natural resources. These innovative food sources, ranging from edible insects and plant-based proteins to legumes, pulses, soy and grains not only provide efficient and sustainable ways to produce protein but also reduce dependency on traditional livestock farming, which is often resource-intensive and environmentally challenging.
For food and agribusinesses, this shift towards ethical, environmentally conscious and sustainable foods presents an imperative for agrifood businesses to innovate and align their practices with the evolving values, trends and concerns of their consumers. New consumption practices are providing a wealth of new opportunities. In Europe alone, the vegan population has more than doubled in recent years, reaching almost 4% in 2020, and the global plant-based food market is expected to reach USD77.8 billion by 2025.
At Farrelly Mitchell, we recognise the growing popularity of alternative proteins and ingredients within the agrifood industry. With expertise in market analysis, consumer behaviour, and sustainable supply chains, our agrifood consultants have a deep understanding of the alternative proteins and food ingredients sectors and are adept at navigating the complexities and emerging trends that define it. We provide strategic insights and practical solutions that help clients adapt, innovate, and thrive in this rapidly evolving environment.
We have worked across the entire food value chain, supporting investors, distributers, producers, and retailers to understanding the intricacies of these markets. Our capabilities extend to identifying market opportunities, navigating regulatory requirements, understanding production processes, advising on strategic partnerships, and assisting with product development. We can confidently guide food and agribusinesses on issues such as sustainability, supply chain management, and marketing strategies.
Our consultants have a deep passion for this industry and are committed to its continued growth. New developments are coming onstream every day, and our consultants diligently stay on top of the latest R&D to support our clients. We believe that our work in this sector has benefitted our clients, the environment, and our own personal impact goals.
We have extensive experience in this sector, having recently conducted a thorough market analysis and feasibility assessment of the emerging pea protein market, identifying opportunities and products of interest for a client interested in legume based proteins.
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Explore our FAQ for answers to common agribusiness queries. Can’t find your question? Contact our expert team for tailored assistance.
Alternative proteins are nutrient-rich substances derived from non-animal sources. They can originate from a variety of sources including plants, cultivated cells, fermentation processes, insects, and algae. They act as substitutes for animal-based proteins found in meat, dairy, seafood, and eggs, and in doing so, present a promising solution to the growing global need for more sustainable foods.
Alternative proteins are rising in popularity due to growing environmental awareness, health consciousness, and ethical concerns about animal welfare. Consumers are seeking sustainable, nutritious options, leading to increased interest in plant-based, lab-grown, and other innovative protein sources.
Businesses must consider market demand and consumer preferences, ensuring the nutritional quality of the product, and aligning with regulatory requirements. Product development should also focus on taste, texture, and appearance to meet consumer expectations. It’s essential to work with experienced R&D teams and consultants to innovate and create products that stand out in the market.
Navigating regulatory challenges requires a thorough understanding of the specific food safety, nutritional quality, and labelling requirements of the target market. It’s advisable to consult food policy experts to ensure all aspects of the product meet local regulations. Keeping abreast of changes in food regulations is also critical.
Shifting towards alternative proteins may involve initial investments in R&D, however, this can lead to long-term financial benefits due to the growing consumer demand. Conducting a comprehensive market analysis and feasibility study can help understand the financial implications and potential ROI.
The alternative proteins and ingredients sector has become increasingly appealing to food businesses. With our support, you can confidently enter this exciting new market. Contact our team today to leverage key industry insights and strategies tailored to your specific needs.
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