A new study commissioned by the European Commission and published on 26 February has revealed new opportunities for the European vegetable protein market, including both animal feed and human food (see EUROPE 12182).
The report observes that the market for non-genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is directly driven by consumer (and retail) demand for products (such as meat, milk and eggs) from animals fed without GMOs. “Driven by sustained demand, non-GMO and organic production should continue to grow”, the authors stress. They expect an increase in soybean and pulse acreage in the EU.
Human consumption. The human food sector accounts for a small share (6%) of the demand for protein-rich plants. Several factors could have an impact on vegetable protein markets. On the one hand, the growth of the vegetarian market will probably stimulate demand for dried vegetables and processed vegetable proteins. On the other hand, the growing demand for gluten- and lactose-free diets should be another factor in the development of protein and soybean products.
The study also examined the impact of Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) measures, including voluntary coupled support and the greening of support. Conclusion: none of the measures have had a negative impact on the production of vegetable proteins. To read the study: https://bit.ly/2IB73i3. (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)