Moving forward: the protein shift doesn’t stop at the border

The alternative protein sector is gaining momentum — but it’s far from easy. Companies are eager to scale up but run into barriers. Fragmented policy, for instance. Or consumers who prefer to stick to what they know. At a gathering held at the Dutch embassy in Brussels, one message stood out: if you want to move forward, collaboration isn’t optional — it’s essential. And not just within your own country, but across borders too.

Flemish lead? The Netherlands is still pulling ahead

On 9 October 2025, the study Bridging Borders, Shaping Proteins was presented in Brussels. For the first time, the report brings the Dutch, Flemish and Walloon sectors together in one overview. The research was conducted by the Flemish platform Next Food Chain. A few striking figures? Seven out of ten Belgian protein processing companies are based in Flanders. Still, the Netherlands has 140% more companies — and its sector is growing faster. Since 2015 alone, 102 Dutch start-ups have emerged.

Wallonia paints a different picture. The sector there is young, small and lacking long-term capital. But still — it’s a region with potential. There's no shortage of raw materials. And local food initiatives, according to the study, “could be of decisive importance to the sector.”

One sector, many silos

After the presentation, representatives from Cosucra, Danone Belgium Luxembourg and Plantitude sat down to discuss. Guided by a moderator, they shared their real-world experiences. The takeaway? “Collaboration is truly the key to success.” Not just between countries, but also among industry, retailers, consumers and policymakers. They stressed the ongoing need to counter misinformation. And pointed to the potential of hybrid products and flexitarian eating — which is still often underestimated.

Consumers don’t change overnight

Flemish agricultural economist Tessa Avermaete concluded the event with a keynote speech. Behavioural change, she said, is difficult — but not impossible. The first step? Understanding why people stick to animal proteins. “Vervolgens kan men door het gesprek aan te gaan, proberen hen te overtuigen van de voordelen van de eiwittransitie.” To do that, clear, science-based information is essential. As is involving medical experts and sharing knowledge about healthy diets more broadly. Only then can things begin to shift.

Agroberichtenbuitenland.nl