In recent years, there have been various global challenges that have impacted food production and supply, such as the climate crisis and conflicts between countries, leading to increased food insecurity. In light of these challenges, the foodtech industry is becoming increasingly relevant and important in addressing the issue of food security.
Forecasts indicate that in approximately a decade, the global market share of milk, chicken, and meat alternatives will reach $140 billion, with meat alternatives expected to comprise about half of this market. In Israel, the market for animal protein alternatives is projected to account for about 15% of the meat and chicken market within that period. With the projected significant population growth in Israel by 2050, it is crucial to take action today to find sustainable solutions to ensure future food security.
Recognizing the importance of addressing food security challenges, Tnuva Ventures, the investment arm of Tnuva in the foodtech field, has partnered with Calcalist for the sixth year to host the annual FoodTech competition. This competition aims to identify and support innovative moves in the food industry.
Anat Gross-Shon, CEO of the Tnuva dairy division, emphasizes the urgency of countries defining clear strategies and policies to protect the food security of their residents. She highlights that the foodtech and agrotech industry plays a fundamental role in developing advanced technologies and collaborating with the traditional food industry to address food security challenges.
Gross-Shon notes that protein alternatives are currently the leading solution in stabilizing global food systems. Plant-based proteins sourced from beans, soy, chickpeas, and peas are gaining traction in the food industry, alongside innovative production methods utilizing biotech technologies such as mushrooms, yeast, and functional proteins.
Tnuva has been investing in the alternative protein field, amounting to approximately 250 million shekels over the past decade. The company is also engaged in strategic partnerships with innovative startups, focusing on the development and production of animal products, a wide variety of milk substitutes, plant-based meat, and cultured meat and milk components. These products aim to be consumer-friendly, nutritious, tasty, and environmentally sustainable.
Regarding the future of foodtech companies, beyond pioneering companies like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods, Gross-Shon believes that the next generation of foodtech companies will continue to develop better solutions in terms of taste, texture, nutrients, and price. They will not replace the traditional meat and dairy industry, but rather expand and innovate in various directions, including meat, fish, and cultured milk produced in labs. The goal is to feed the growing world population while conserving resources like land, water, and energy.
The next generation of foodtech will also address the challenges facing the cultured meat industry, such as scaling production, reducing costs, and navigating regulatory frameworks. Initiatives like the partnership between Tnuva and Pluri, known as ‘Ever After Foods’, aim to produce cultured meat components and contribute to the development of cultured meat.
In conclusion, the foodtech industry has a pivotal role in ensuring food security in the face of global challenges. By developing advanced technologies, optimizing production capabilities, and collaborating with the traditional food industry, foodtech companies can make a significant difference in addressing food security and creating sustainable solutions.
Sources:
– Interview with Anat Gross-Shon, CEO of Tnuva dairy division, Calcalist
– FoodTech competition, Calcalist and Tnuva Ventures