Thailand sees alternative proteins as a rising trend
Over 100 active players from the Thai F&B sector (government, university, business) attended the “Thai – Dutch Proteins Transition Seminar 2023” in Bangkok. The pressure of climate change and the increasing global population will accelerate the protein transition of our agricultural and food systems of today. Alternative proteins will play an essential role in the future landscape of food security and sustainability, experts said at the seminar.
Alternative proteins from insects and plants–based sources can help reducing greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture and to diminish the use of natural resources (land, water, minerals etc.). The challenge is to enhance consumer acceptance and perception of alternative proteins. More R&D for nutritional value, healthy diet, and palatability are needed, said the experts.
The Seminar was organized by the Netherlands Embassy in collaboration with Kasetsart University, Thai Future Food Trade Association, and Informa Markets Thailand. The seminar aimed to exchange knowledge about the protein transition and to inspire the audience with new food concept based on alternative proteins with the goal, to accelerate the use of alternative proteins sources in the Thai Food Systems. This seminar also strengthened the Thai – Dutch cooperation in agri-food.
Asia and the Pacific (APAC) is the world's largest supplier of conventional protein; the rising of alternative proteins market is to mitigate global warming and health issues. APAC consumers are also open-minded to try new products if they match their taste, nutritional demand, and affordability.
Visit Limlurcha, Thai Future Food Trade Association
It is clear that there is a need for a broader range of sustainable protein solutions with appealing tastes and textures and serve as a good source of nutrition. For the health of future generations and our planet, we need to continue to focus on innovation, and combine sound science with culinary creativity and best-in-class design principles to increase the adoption of alternative/plant protein.
Daphne Tan, dsm-firmenich
Sustainability takes part in every minute of our lives. Food is one of the topics we usually make a link with sustainability, but it is not the only one. The use of insects as food and feed can contribute to many dimensions of sustainability related to 17-SDGs.
Dr. Wasaporn Preteseille Chanput, Kasetsart University
Better balancing of animal and alternative proteins in our diets (preferable max 30% animal-based proteins) is better for your health and the environment. For health reasons “the Netherlands Nutrition Center” advises to eat more plant based and less animal based proteins (less than 500 grams of meat per week with a maximum of 300 grams red meat).
Gijs Theunissen DVM, The Netherlands Embassy
Global seafood leader Thai Union Group PCL supports the perspective of the Dutch government that both public and private parties have a shared responsibility in a successful protein transition including alternative protein.
Gerben Kamps, Thai Union Group PCL
Thailand has great opportunities for alternative protein with increasing global consumer demand as driven by sustainable trends. Development of alternative protein products towards consumer needs including taste, texture, with fortified nutrients for health benefits. Protein from mushroom and fermentation are potential alternatives.
Dr. Nathdanai Harnkarnsujarit, Kasetsart University
Fi Asia 2023 in Bangkok this September 21 – 22 is one the largest gatherings for the F & B industry. With over 650 exhibitors from international food ingredient suppliers and food and beverage manufacturers, Fi Asia is the highly anticipated event for the food and proteins industry.
Nongnaphat Teerakitlert, Informa Markets Thailand
