A new analysis by Systemiq and GFI Europe suggests that alternative proteins like plant-based foods, cultivated meat, and fermentation could contribute €111 billion annually to the EU's economy by 2040 if prioritized strategically. This industry has the potential to create 414,000 high-quality jobs in various sectors and could be worth €79 billion in the domestic market and €60 billion in exports. To achieve these benefits, the report recommends annual investments of €690 million in research and €720 million in scale-up by EU institutions and national governments.

The analysis highlights that alternative proteins could help reduce EU agriculture's reliance on imported crops, create new market opportunities for farmers, and align with the region's sustainability goals. By doubling demand for ingredients like peas and fava beans, alternative proteins could also improve farmland fertility. The report emphasizes the need for regulatory clarity to support European businesses introducing innovative products to the market and suggests that with an investment of just €1.4 billion a year, the EU could significantly boost food security, job creation, and economic value in this industry.