Food of the Future | 26 Sep 2024

Source: LM

Recently, the Indian government approved the Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment (Bioe3) Policy, prioritising the production of "smart proteins" as a key focus area.

• About Smart Proteins: 
  • Alternative or smart proteins refer to proteins derived from unconventional sources such as algae, fungi, or insects, or produced using advanced methods like fermentation and lab-grown cells.
  • The term also encompasses plant-based proteins, which have been available for decades, and are designed to replicate the taste and nutritional value of animal products without the need for breeding livestock.
  • As per data, alternative protein production reduces environmental impact, using 72-99% less water, 47-99% less land, causing 51-91% less water pollution, and emitting 30-90% fewer greenhouse gases compared to conventional meat production.
• Safe and sustainable:
  • As incomes rise, people consume more protein, with India’s protein intake increasing from 9.7% of calories in 1991 to 11% in 2021. 
  • Alternative proteins enhance food safety by mitigating the risk of zoonotic diseases and fostering ethical consumption but also align with Indian dietary habits
• BioE3 Policy:
  • It is aimed at fostering high-performance biomanufacturing, with broader national goals such as achieving a 'Net Zero' carbon economy and promoting sustainable growth through a circular bioeconomy.

Read More: BioE3 Policy and Biotechnology in India