Alternative protein processors using cell- or plant-based methods can learn from biotech
The biotech industry has been dealing with regulations and scale-ups for some time and has the know-how
Alternative proteins—especially cell-based seafood and meats—hold promise for the future, considering that animals are eliminated from the production chain. But, for those food processors seeking to make cell-based products, they face a steep cost of entry due to research, regulations (both USDA and FDA) and the difficulty of scaling up production from a lab bench to the processing plant. Plant-based proteins, however, have been somewhat easier, as much of the work has already been done, and suppliers of both equipment and ingredients are becoming easier to find.
A research report from CRB entitled, “Horizons: Alternative Proteins,” reveals “a tricky path ahead, promising great reward, but potholed by risk.” While there has been much innovation and aspiration among new entrants of alternative proteins, at the same time, they face high materials cost, regulation and scalability challenges.