Meat Alternative Proteins for Food Security and Sustainability: A Mini Review

Abstract

Protein is a vital macronutrient for human body functions. It is present in rich amount in animal and plant food sources such as soy, legumes and mushroom. However, animal-based proteins are associated with an increase in chronic diseases such as heart attack and obesity. In addition, raising of the livestock required high land and water use, and significantly led to an increase in greenhouse gas emissions. The increase in worldwide population to 9.8 billion by 2050 underscores the urgent need to secure essential and sustainable food resources, notably protein, for human health. This review provides an insight of alternative proteins - plant-based proteins, insect proteins and cultured meat to meet global protein demand while reducing potential health risks and environmental impact, accordance with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).