New Anuga trade fair highlights alternative proteins

Alternative proteins are getting a stage of their own at Anuga 2025. For the first time, the international food trade fair is launching a dedicated event under the name Anuga Alternatives. From 4 to 8 October, everything will revolve around plant-based, algae-derived, cultivated, and microbial protein products. And interest is already coming in from all over the world.

Strong international interest in debut edition

Over 90 exhibitors from across the globe have confirmed their participation in Anuga Alternatives. Group stands from the Netherlands, Denmark, Slovenia, Turkey and Luxembourg further emphasise the worldwide relevance of the topic. Well-known names such as Beyond Meat EU B.V. and Oatly Deutschland GmbH will be present. The New Originals Company GmbH (brand: "Omami") and Tofutown Lüneburger Heide GmbH are also taking part.

In addition, more than 1,300 exhibitors spread across all ten Anuga trade shows are showcasing plant-based products. It’s a clear sign that alternative proteins have made their way into the mainstream of the international food industry.

From mycelium to sunflower and algae

The range on show at Anuga Alternatives spans plant-based staples as well as microbial and fungi-based innovations. Pacifico Biolabs GmbH is presenting ‘Viando chicken’, a mycelium-based meat alternative that, according to the company, offers “the same sensory experience, nutritional value and functionality as conventional chicken.”

SunflowerFamily GmbH is introducing ‘Sunflower Mince’, an organic meat substitute made from sunflower protein. Jens Møller Products ApS from Denmark is showcasing algae-based vegan caviar (‘Cavi-Art’) and vegan shrimp (‘Zhrimps’). Neggst Foods GmbH will present the ‘Neggst Patty’, based on a vegetarian egg substitute.

Oatly has announced a new product launch during the event.

HORIZON Stage focuses on tech and vision

The Anuga HORIZON Stage in Hall 1 brings together future-facing themes through keynotes, panel discussions and interactive sessions. Topics like ‘AI & Deep Tech’, ‘Health & Functional Food’ and ‘Circularity & Regeneration’ frame the conversation around developments in research, technology, and market entry. The stage serves as both a knowledge platform and a meeting point for innovators.

Market data, including from Innova Market Insights, shows solid growth across the board: products with insect-based proteins are growing at an average rate of 114% per year. Microbial cultivated proteins are seeing +10% growth, nutritional yeast +60%, and non-animal whey proteins +24%. Algae-based products are growing 17% annually, with standout rates of up to 32% for kelp and red algae.

Anuga.com