A German study by the consulting firm “Systemiq” for the “Good Food Institute Europe” has projected that the industry of alternative protein sources could contribute up to 65 billion euros to Germany’s economic output by 2045, creating 250,000 new jobs. According to the report, the domestic market for alternative proteins could grow to around 23 billion euros by 2045. The study’s authors also expect a turnover of up to 35 billion euros from the production and export of raw materials and machines, such as extruders or fermenters, used in the production of alternative meat and dairy products.
The plant-based proteins could also benefit the environment. In Germany, the study suggests that the area required for food production could be reduced by up to 1.2 million hectares, with around 76 million cubic meters of water saved annually and approximately 4.8 million tons of greenhouse gases not emitted per year.
However, the analysts from “Systemiq” emphasized that political will and financial support are necessary to unlock the industry’s potential. Public canteens, for example, would need to offer more alternative meat options and research and development funding would need to increase to around 140 million euros per year, according to the report.