According to the UN, the world’s population will grow to around 9.7 billion people by 2050. As the population grows, so does the demand for food, especially protein sources. Fish in particular is one of the most important sources of animal protein worldwide. Per capita consumption has risen significantly in recent years. However, natural fish stocks alone will not be able to meet the growing demand of the world’s population. This article highlights some of the alternative options available.
Aquaculture provides additional security of supply
Due to growing demand, marine animal stocks in natural waters have been depleted in many places. An assessment by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) shows that around 37% of all fish stocks worldwide are considered overfished. Around 60% of stocks are being exploited to their sustainable limit.
In order to meet the growing demand for fish and other marine life, aquaculture is becoming increasingly popular. The FAO already estimates that more than 50% of the fish consumed worldwide comes from controlled breeding, and this trend is on the rise.
However, space in arable farming is also limited, making efficiency increasingly important. Operators therefore rely on state-of-the-art technology such as a high pressure low volume water pump. This ensures controlled water flows in tanks and basins and can direct the liquids to mechanical or biological filter systems. This enables aquaculture facilities to precisely control the water cycle and ensure stable living conditions for the fish. The use of water and energy also becomes more efficient. The result: more sustainable and efficient aquaculture that creates stable production conditions and supports the food supply of the future.
Plant-based meat alternatives are becoming increasingly popular
The global market for plant-based meat is also experiencing growing demand. In 2023, it was worth around 7.17 billion USD. Experts predict that it could grow to around 24.8 billion USD by 2030. There are many reasons for this increase.
Many consumers are now paying more attention to their diet. In addition, studies recommend reducing meat consumption for health and environmental reasons. Nevertheless, many meat lovers find it difficult to give it up completely. Plant-based alternatives therefore offer a possible compromise. They help to reduce meat consumption without having to forego similar taste experiences or familiar dishes.
Access to meat alternatives is also becoming easier. More and more supermarkets and restaurants are expanding their range and offering burger patties made from soy, pea or wheat protein, for example.
Algae: a healthy source of protein and energy
These organisms, which live in water, are primarily known in the beauty industry as moisturisers. That is why they are used for various skin applications. However, their potential uses could expand in the future. Some microalgae contain between 40-70% protein, based on their dry weight. They also contain all essential amino acids, vitamin B, iron, magnesium and iodine, and are rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
This combination makes them ideal for human nutrition. Our bodies need an average of about 0.8 g of protein per kilogram of body weight per day. According to this calculation, a person weighing 70 kg needs about 56 g of protein per day. Even a relatively small amount of algae could meet this requirement and also provide the body with valuable vitamins and amino acids.
