Newswise — How alternative proteins change the trajectory of our food system
Alternative proteins help decrease emissions, feed more people with fewer resources, and restore biodiversity. They also address the urgent problems of antibiotic resistance and pandemic risk caused by our food system.
These are not abstract issues — they pose an existential threat to the health and safety of communities worldwide. If we want to make a meaningful difference, we cannot scale up industrial animal agriculture indefinitely. The time for good food solutions is now.
We are building a world where alternative proteins are no longer alternative, powered by support from our global community of donors. Working across science, policy, and industry, we are identifying priority focus areas for alternative proteins to compete on taste and price. Alternative proteins are a solution made for the unique opportunities and challenges of this moment — and we are stepping up with clear-eyed optimism and persistence.
How can alternative proteins create a better future for the planet, people, and animals?
Alternative proteins mitigate climate change
Animal agriculture accounts for 11-20 percent of greenhouse gas-causing emissions. Plant-based meat causes 98 percent fewer emissions than conventional meat.
Alternative proteins increase food security
One-third of all staple crops are fed to farmed animals, while one in nine people around the world are undernourished.
Alternative proteins fight antibiotic resistance
80 percent of antibiotics in the United States are given to livestock, leading to antibiotic-resistant superbugs.
Alternative proteins help restore biodiversity
One-third of Earth’s arable land is used for animal agriculture. Alternative proteins could reduce the land needed to grow food by up to 75 percent.
Alternative proteins decrease pandemic risk
Increasing demand for meat and unsustainable methods of meat production are two of the most likely causes of the next pandemic. Alternative proteins take the animal out of the equation.
Alternative proteins reduce food waste
Nine calories of food are required to produce one calorie of chicken — equivalent to preparing nine plates of food and throwing eight away.
Our commitment to our planet
In a time when climate and biodiversity loss threaten our planet’s future, investing in nature-positive solutions is essential. This is the moment to double down on open-access alternative protein research that will lead to critical breakthroughs. This is the moment to secure public and private investment in alternative proteins. This work cannot wait.
Alternative proteins can feed a growing population and foster a more sustainable, secure, and just food system. With enough focused support, they can scale to meet increased global demand and transform food’s next chapter for our planet and its inhabitants.
We are so grateful to our community of donors for making all of GFI’s global activities and impact possible. Together, we are meeting this pivotal moment for our food system with determination and hope.
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