The transition toward sustainable, plant-based food systems in Europe is gaining momentum, but what barriers are holding it back?
In the recent VALPRO Path webinar, “Exploring the Gaps and Lock-In Situations in Europe’s Plant Protein Sector,” experts from across Europe unpacked these challenges and shared pathways forward.
Hosted by Foodscale Hub, the session featured thought-provoking insights from Dr Ewen Mullins, Dr Maeve Henchion, Dr Moritz Reckling and Dr Heba Elsalahy, highlighting how innovation, collaboration and circular business models can unlock new value in Europe’s plant protein landscape.
Highlights and reflections from the discussion
Dr Ewen Mullins from Teagasc opened the discussion by emphasising that while Europe grows protein crops effectively, their full potential is often untapped. He highlighted the need for business models that are both environmentally and economically sustainable, explaining that VALPRO Path demonstrates how farmers can gain more value from existing crops while supporting circularity and resilience.
Dr Maeve Henchion, Work Package Leader at VALPRO Path, noted that the technology to process plant-based foods already exists, but the real gaps lie in markets and consumer behaviour. She stressed that shifting people toward plant-based diets isn’t about criticising meat, it’s about showcasing the taste and nutritional benefits of plant-based foods. According to her, taste and affordability remain the main challenges, yet also the greatest opportunities to make these options mainstream.
Dr Moritz Reckling from ZALF highlighted another critical barrier: seed availability and adapted varieties. He pointed out that breeding programs have historically focused more on cereals than legumes, leaving crops like peas, faba beans, chickpeas, and lentils underdeveloped. Dr Reckling emphasised the importance of research and pre-breeding programs to support both established and emerging crops.
Dr Heba Elsalahy, also from ZALF, discussed regional disparities in seed availability and plant protection products. Northern Europe, for instance, has fewer registered varieties, limiting genetic diversity. She called for knowledge exchange between regions and the promotion of sustainable practices to boost legume yields and close productivity gaps across Europe.
Watch the whole Webinar session on YouTube now.
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