Dutch protein transition: A growing economic force

The Dutch food industry is experiencing notable growth, particularly in the protein transition sector. With over 425 companies and institutions actively engaged, the annual production value reaches an impressive €881 million. This has created at least 3,500 jobs, as shown by the Protein Transition Map NL. This map, developed by Foodvalley NL and the Interprovincial Protein Consultation, highlights the economic impact of protein transition in the Netherlands.

The Protein Transition Map NL includes an economic analysis conducted in collaboration with Buck Consultants. This analysis displays the economic value and number of working individuals per province. Since 2015, the value of producers and knowledge suppliers in non-conventional animal proteins has doubled. This growth has established the sector as a significant industry with substantial potential for international expansion.

Diversity in protein production

The companies listed on the map focus on alternatives to conventional animal proteins. These range from plant-based proteins like legumes to alternatives such as insects and industrially produced proteins like algae. Notably, over half of these companies were originally active in the meat, fish, or dairy sector.

Expansion in the protein sector

The interactive Protein Transition Map NL reveals a diverse spread of organizations. At least 100 companies process plant-based ingredients into semi-finished and finished products. The number of companies focused on fermentation-produced proteins, such as mycoprotein and cultured meat, has doubled since 2015 to over 20.

A platform for collaboration

The Protein Transition Map NL is set for an official launch on March 14, 2024, during the Protein Transition Congress in Kamerik. The map, developed by Foodvalley NL under the commission of the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality and the Interprovincial Protein Consultation, will be accessible online. This facilitates easier interaction among entrepreneurs and stakeholders. Companies can share their listing, and new parties can register.

The broad impact of protein transition

The Protein Transition Map NL is part of the Value Case Protein Transition. This project, with contributions from Foodvalley NL and the Food Transition Coalition, aims to quantify the impact of protein transition on ecology, health, and the economy. In 2023, Wageningen University & Research presented a study indicating that the environmental impact of Dutch production could decrease by approximately €8 billion.

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