10 predictions for the industry in 2025 and beyond

As the alternative protein sector evolves, its players continue to redefine how we think about food production, sustainability, and global food security. From precision fermentation to cell-cultivated meat, plant-based innovations, and molecular farming, here are 10 predictions for what lies ahead in this transformative space, compiled thanks to the Editorial Advisory Board of Protein Production Technology International magazine.

1. Precision fermentation will dominate the ingredient space
Precision fermentation will cement its role as a key enabler for alternative proteins. Companies like Perfect Day, Geltor, and Formo are already leveraging microbial fermentation to produce functional proteins like whey, collagen, and casein. Expect a surge in partnerships with major CPG companies as these ingredients scale up to provide cost-effective alternatives for everything from dairy to cosmetics.

2. Cultivated meat will achieve limited commercial viability
While cultivated meat has faced regulatory and scalability challenges, 2025 will see more products entering niche markets. Companies such as UPSIDE Foods and Good Meat will likely continue to feature in the headlines, although expect the likes of Vow, Meatable, Aleph Farms and GOURMEY to come to the fore. However, mainstream affordability will remain elusive for another five to 10 years.

3. Plant-based foods will refocus on health and clean labels
The initial hype around plant-based products has plateaued, but companies such as THIS, Beyond Meat, and Impossible Foods are pivoting toward addressing consumer concerns about ingredient lists and nutritional profiles. Expect cleaner labels, fewer processed additives, and an emphasis on high-quality, whole-food-based formulations.

4. Molecular farming will advance rapidly
Using plants as biofactories to produce high-value proteins will gain momentum. Pioneers such as Brightseed, Moolec, PoLoPo and Clara Foods are working on scalable methods to produce everything from egg whites to therapeutic proteins. These innovations will blur the lines between agriculture and biotechnology.

5. Regulatory aApprovals will accelerate
Governments worldwide are recognizing the urgency of addressing food security and climate change. The USA, EU, and Asia are expected to streamline regulatory frameworks for novel foods, inspired by Singapore's early leadership. Companies such as Nature’s Fynd and Solar Foods, specializing in microbial proteins, could benefit significantly from these advancements.

6. Alternative seafood will gain traction
With overfishing and ocean health becoming pressing concerns, alternative seafood will take center stage. Companies such as Revo Foods and BlueNalu are developing plant-based and cell-cultivated seafood alternatives that aim to replicate the texture, flavor, and nutritional profile of fish and shellfish.

7. Cost-competitiveness will become critical
The alternative protein sector will face increasing pressure to achieve price parity with conventional proteins. Innovations in bioprocessing from companies like Melt&Marble and CDMOs like ScaleUp Bio will play a pivotal role in reducing production costs and improving scalability.

8. Consumer education will shift the narrative
Mistrust around new technologies like precision fermentation and cultivated meat remains a challenge. Expect initiatives from industry leaders and coalitions, such as the Good Food Institute, to focus on transparent communication, tastings, and chef partnerships to normalize these products for the average consumer.

9. Sustainability metrics will become non-negotiable
As investors and consumers demand proof of environmental benefits, companies will invest heavily in lifecycle analyses (LCA) and transparent reporting. Tools like Hamilton Process Analytics' PAT systems and EniferBio’s PEKILOPet mycoprotein showcase how innovation aligns with sustainability goals.

10. Hybrid products will gain popularity
The blending of plant-based, cultivated, and fermented proteins into hybrid products will become a key strategy for addressing cost, scalability, and consumer acceptance. Brands such as Planted are likely to lead the charge, offering products that combine the best attributes of multiple protein sources.

The next decade will be a defining one for the alternative protein industry. Companies that can balance innovation with consumer trust, regulatory compliance, and cost competitiveness will shape the future of food. While challenges remain, the potential for these technologies to transform our food system and address critical global challenges is undeniable.

What do you think about these predictions? Are there other trends you see on the horizon?