Alternative Proteins as Key to a more sustainable and accessible Europe

In recent years, Europe has faced one of the most challenging phases for the food market, marked by inflation that has hit animal proteins hard. With price increases reaching +30% for beef, +35% for chicken, and +42% for pork, we are facing more than just a post-pandemic fluctuation; this is a sign of systemic fragility. The food production model is heavily dependent on feed imports, volatile energy costs, and is increasingly vulnerable to the effects of climate change.

According to an analysis published by Reuters, a structural solution may lie in alternative proteins. Plant-based, fermentation-based, or cultivated meat products represent not just product innovation, but a strategic lever that, if developed at scale, could mitigate food inflation and support the European Union’s climate goals.

A structural Dependence difficult to sustain

Currently, the EU imports about two-thirds of the proteins required for livestock feeding. The soybeans market is particularly telling: 96% of the soy consumed in Europe comes from the United States and South America. This dependency exposes the European supply chain to a dual vulnerability: economic, due to fluctuations in global markets, and environmental, considering the impact of deforestation and logistics. Furthermore, intensive farming significantly contributes to the EU’s carbon footprint. Making European food production more sustainable thus requires addressing the entire production architecture by diversifying sources.

The Potential of Alternative Proteins: Resilience and New Supply Chains

Alternative proteins are emerging as one of the most effective tools for building a resilient agri-food model. By stabilizing prices through reduced reliance on global feed, these solutions pave the way for new local supply chains. The promotion of European crops for human consumption — such as peas, chickpeas, and lupins — which are currently marginal compared to those used in feed production, represents a concrete opportunity.

This is a vision that we at Atlante have long shared and pursued. We believe that the protein transition should not be a niche but an accessible reality for all. That’s why, for years, we have invested in the plant-based sector with brands like Vegamo e Benesse, bringing to supermarket shelves alternatives to meat and dairy made from diverse protein sources that meet the demand for tasty, affordable, and plant-based products.

An economic engine for Europe

The widespread adoption of alternative proteins would generate a tangible economic impact. In Germany, estimates indicate that the sector could generate up to €35 billion in exports by 2045, with an added value across Europe exceeding €65 billion. These numbers outline a growth opportunity in line with the Green Deal, reducing the food market’s exposure to geopolitical crises.

From Challenge to Opportunity: overcoming obstacles

Despite the potential, the path forward still presents challenges. Cultural resistance, the lack of structural incentives for agricultural conversion, and complex bureaucracy surrounding novel foods slow scalability compared to international competitors. As highlighted by the Reuters analysis, the key lies not just in technology but in systemic support. Policies are needed to support farmers in diversification and a regulatory framework that fosters innovation.

The shift to a more plant-based diet and diversified production is an economic resilience strategy. In this model, the coexistence of sustainable farming and alternative proteins becomes a guarantee of stability, value, and security across the entire supply chain.