Due to a growing global population an increase in protein demand is expected. Innovation can help address future protein shortages by developing alternative methods of protein production to complement existing animal protein supply. Chinese and Dutch focus on alternative proteins coincide.
On 18 June 2026, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature (LVVN) in the Netherlands submitted a policy brief to Parliament outlining an Agrifood Innovation Agenda Framework for the coming decade. The policy brief identifies food innovation as one of the agrifood domains offering above average opportunities for the future of the Dutch agrifood cluster.
The policy brief reasons that innovation can help address future protein shortages by developing alternative methods of protein production to complement existing animal protein supply. One example is Cellular Agriculture (CA), which encompasses technologies that enable animal products, such as milk and meat ingredients, to be produced directly from cells.
As an illustration of this potential, the policy brief highlights the recently opened experimental farm for cultured meat production in Schipluiden, the first facility of its kind worldwide. The farm demonstrates that livestock farmers could play a role in future cultured meat production alongside their existing farming activities.
Innovations in alternative proteins aim to add to current farm operations, not replace existing practice
Chinese and Dutch focus on alternative proteins coincide
The Dutch focus on alternative proteins coincides with developments in China, where food security and the transition towards modern, efficient and technology-driven agriculture have become central priorities. China’s 15th Five-Year Plan aims to produce more and higher-quality food under increasing constraints on land, water and environmental resources. The Five-Year Plan therefore emphasizes agricultural modernization, diversified food supply systems and growing interest in emerging technologies, including synthetic biology and new protein sources.
China’s approach to new proteins aligns with its broader goals of achieving food security, efficiency and technological upgrading. While the sector is still at an early stage, experiments with cellular agriculture and related technologies are accelerating. A case in point is the recent collaboration between Dutch New Protein World business association and the China Chamber of Commerce of Foodstuffs, Native Produce and Animal By-products (CFNA). The collaboration facilitates open knowledge sharing in accelerating innovation in practice.
These developments are also reflected in a recent report by Systemiq and the Gordon & Betty Moore Foundation. The China’s Food Future Report explains how China's food security priorities could influence global trade flows and the future of protein supply. It notes that animal-based foods are likely to remain central to Chinese diets in the near term, meaning China's reliance on imported feed and protein inputs could remain largely unchanged.
Chinese developments have implications for companies in the Netherlands
The report identifies protein as a strategic priority within China's food system. It describes protein as the most resource-intensive component of the food system, the largest driver of import dependence, and the point where dietary preferences, environmental pressure and geopolitical risk converge most clearly.
These developments have implications beyond China. Over the next two decades, countries whose agricultural sectors currently partner with Chinese counterparts will need to consider how to respond. China's industrial approach to alternative proteins has the potential to accelerate global cost reductions, bringing price parity within reach sooner than the industry currently anticipates. This creates both opportunities and challenges, including for Dutch companies.
Look for what’s happening in China
Following the presentation of the Agri Innovation Agenda Framework, roadmaps towards implementation will be developed together with key stakeholders. These so-called Dutch Diamond Roadmaps will be presented at the end of the year as part of the Agrifood Innovation Agenda. During this process, stakeholders in the Netherlands may wish to closely monitor what’s happening in China.
For more information: pek-lvvn@minbuza.nl