China increases focus on alternative proteins, as evidenced by two key documents released ahead of the annual Two Sessions political summit. The first document, from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, outlines priorities for agricultural innovation through 2028, including research on novel food development and safety assessment of alternative proteins. The second, the No. 1 Central Document, calls for building a diversified food supply system and exploring novel food resources, specifically mentioning fungal and algae-based protein extraction techniques.
China is already a leader in renewable energy and is now expanding support for plant-based and cultivated meat. Experts suggest half of China’s protein consumption must come from alternative sources by 2060 to meet decarbonization goals. The government’s current plans encourage research in cultivated meat, recombinant proteins, and novel foods. President Xi has called for a “Grand Food Vision” including plant-based and microbial proteins.
Source: Why China is Betting on Alternative Proteins in Its Annual Two Sessions Summit