The Nexus of Plant-Based Markets, Technological Advancements, Health and Safety Protocols, and Future Trajectories

Abstract

ABSTRACT The growing consumer demand for more sustainable and healthier food options is driving a revolutionary change in the global food business. Concerns over the anticipated 10 billion population growth by 2050 and the resulting doubling of the demand for protein are what are driving this change. The conventional protein market has grown over the last two to three years, and forecasts for 2030 show a notable rise in the overall market volume, especially in the meat industry. Nonetheless, data from industry events shows that consumers are becoming more interested in plant-based diets; estimates indicate that by 2030, more than half of customers will switch to flexitarian diets. The burgeoning plant-based movement begs the questions of its sustainability over the long run and its effects on the food industry. Is this a transitory trend or a big change in the industry?