Meat Alternatives Could Account for a Third of the UK Protein Market by 2040

A report by the Social Market Foundation in the UK predicts that alternative proteins could make up around a third of the total protein market by 2040. The market for alternative meats has seen significant growth over the past decade, but growth stalled last year, prompting concerns about the industry's future. Experts agree that improving the taste, cost, and nutritional value of meat alternatives will be crucial for market success, requiring more investment in infrastructure and research and development.

The report highlights cultivated meat as a potentially game-changing innovation for the alternative protein industry. However, analysts note that there are significant technical barriers to scaling cultivated proteins. To support the growth of the alternative protein market, the report recommends that the government should provide more support, including easing regulations and potentially subsidizing retail prices of meat alternatives. Calls have also been made for the UK government to invest £1 billion in alternative proteins by 2030 and to consider taxing conventional meat to reduce consumption, emphasizing the potential benefits of alternative proteins for animal welfare and the environment.