Overijssel develops a local plant-based protein chain

The province of Overijssel is working on a protein chain close to home. No distant imports, but fava beans, lupin, soy and peas, grown on Overijssel soil. Crops that suit the land, the climate, and the future. And they do more than just deliver protein: they also improve soil quality and boost biodiversity.

With that, the province is laying the groundwork for a shorter, circular supply chain. And that’s no coincidence, says Iris Middelkamp of the province: “Locally grown protein benefits farmers, the soil and the climate.”

From farm to fork, and everything in between

The so-called Eiwitteelt Acceleration Program isn’t just about planting seeds. It looks at the bigger picture. From breeding and processing to getting products to market. The programme is coordinated by Stimuland. Feet in the mud, literally, according to Middelkamp: “We stay in touch with what’s really happening on the farm.”

Several parties are involved in the execution, including De Nieuwe Melkboer, Lekker Lupine and Twentse Veldbonen. They all share the same goal: a profitable, regional protein supply chain. Because good intentions alone won’t cut it. Middelkamp puts it plainly: “Sustainability also needs to be financially viable. Farmers should be able to earn a living from growing their own protein crops.”

No demand, no supply

A strong market isn’t in place yet. And that’s a hurdle. “As long as the market doesn’t step in, margins will remain tight,” Middelkamp explains. That’s why the province is investing now, hoping that businesses will take over in the future.

And consumers? They have a part to play too. “Eat more plant-based protein from the Netherlands!” Middelkamp says. It may sound simple, but it’s essential. Because only when demand grows will production start to scale up. “But to meet that demand, the crops need to be in the ground already.”

Hierinsalland.nl