Meat analogues, the Canadian Meat Industry and the Canadian consumer

This paper reviews current information on meat analogues in the context of the Canadian Meat Industry and consumer. In Canada, plant-based meat analogues are widely available and their consumption is targeted to surge, while the potential for cultured meat remains questionable as many technical, economic, food safety and consumer acceptance issues are unresolved. Current funding support for meat protein alternatives suggests optimism for success provided a sufficient time horizon. Conceivably, a market shift towards meat analogues could result in greater meat exports, stagnation or curtailment of livestock and meat production. However, from a global perspective, growing demand for protein, and continued preference and premiums paid for meat as countries develop could sustain healthy meat and livestock industries in Canada to coexist with alternative protein industries. Competition could also encourage exploitation of untapped potential for diversification and value addition, but this will only occur if research and development are supported.