Innovation Talks –
The Future of Protein

Protein is essential for both humans and animals and is, therefore, an indispensable component in food and feed consumed on a daily basis. Although protein-crop production in the EU has improved over the last 10 years, there continues to be a significant shortfall in domestic production. Those were the conclusions of the European Parliament's Own Initiative Report approval on 19 October 2023 hinting on a clear need for a comprehensive EU protein strategy to enhance protein potential and developing plant-based and alternative protein for food and feed.

Ahead of the European Commission's ongoing work on its Protein Strategy expected in the first half of 2024, and the recent International Protein Day on 27 February, we are launching the first of a series of three events, aimed to look into the critical intersection of innovation, tradition, and implementation, especially by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in shaping the future of protein consumption.

Understanding the role of protein in a healthy diet is crucial, with up to 30% of daily calorie intake derived from sources like soybeans, poultry, fish, and eggs. As consumers increasingly make sustainability-conscious and health-driven decisions, adapting to their behavior becomes paramount, guiding a pathway towards more sustainable and healthy diets.