A recent analysis reveals that the UK government has allocated £75 million towards the development of alternative proteins, more than half of the £125 million recommended by Henry Dimbleby in his 2021 National Food Strategy (NFS).

This investment aims to bolster research and innovation in plant-based foods, cultivated meat, and fermentation technologies.

The Good Food Institute Europe (GFI Europe), a nonprofit think tank, conducted this assessment to evaluate the progress made since the NFS emphasised the necessity of establishing a robust alternative protein ecosystem.

According to GFI Europe, this funding marks a significant step in addressing food security concerns while promoting green growth within the food manufacturing sector.

The analysis notes that approximately 60% of the total investment has been directed toward innovators in the alternative protein space, positioning the UK as Europe’s second-largest public research funder in this domain.

GFI Europe highlights the establishment of four new research centres in the UK, which are expected to foster collaboration between scientists and entrepreneurs, although it cautions that it is premature to label these centres as a cohesive 'cluster' as envisioned in the NFS.

Despite these advancements, GFI Europe points out that progress in regulatory modernisation for cultivated meat and precision fermentation has been slow.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has initiated a regulatory sandbox to facilitate collaboration with businesses, yet detailed guidance for alternative protein start-ups, initially proposed in 2022, has yet to be published.

Additionally, the implementation of mandatory reporting of protein sales by large food companies has not occurred, a measure suggested in the NFS to enhance transparency and encourage diversification in protein sources.

Currently, only 16% of the 36 large food companies surveyed by the Food Foundation voluntarily report on their protein sales.

Linus Pardoe, senior UK policy manager at GFI Europe, noted the importance of leveraging the new food strategy to further develop the UK’s alternative protein sector.

“While substantial progress has been made, the task is only halfway complete,” he commented. “Ministers have an opportunity to set the stage for the UK’s leadership in protein diversification by 2030, unlocking potential for innovation-driven economic growth and healthier dietary choices.”

As the UK continues to invest in alternative proteins, the focus will be on creating scalable facilities and developing domestic supply chains to support food producers and entrepreneurs in the burgeoning sector.

GFI Europe advocates for policymakers to prioritise these initiatives to ensure the UK remains competitive in the global alternative protein market.

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