INTERVIEW 78 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE September 2025 EUROPEAN FARMERS NAVIGATE CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES IN ALTERNATIVE PROTEINS MARKET Alternative proteins are increasingly seen as part of the solution to global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and the need for more resilient food systems. Insects, algae, legumes, and even cell-based products are moving into the spotlight as potential complements to traditional protein sources, opening up both opportunities and uncertainties for farmers and the wider food industry. How competitive is Europe in this field? What practical steps should farmers take before investing in new protein sources? And what role will consumers and retailers play in shaping demand? Professor Tilo Hühn of the Zurich University of Applied Sciences and Simone Poppe, founder of NewFood Consulting GmbH, share their insights on the prospects, pitfalls, and long-term importance of alternative proteins through the questions below. Where does the demand for new food and animal feed products come from and how stable is it? Prof. Tilo Hühn: Climate change, biodiversity conservation, protection against environmental contamination and the increasing risk of crop failures are major drivers of change in agriculture. This Challenges and opportunities in the alternative proteins market are reshaping the agricultural and food industry. In addition to traditional protein sources, insects, algae and other alternative proteins are gaining in importance as new food and feedstuffs. But what do farmers need to consider when entering these areas? In this interview, members of the DLG New Feed and Food Committee, Professor Tilo Hühn and Simone Poppe give their views on the topic. Photo: Faizal Afnan | ShutterStock
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