This Strategy moves from the considerations that proteins are a crucial part of human nutrition, and thus a shift in protein production and consumption, eating less and more sustainable animal protein products and more vegetable protein products, is regarded as an important strategy to improve the ecological sustainability of the food system. The Strategy reflects the commitment of the Flemish government to comply with the Sustainable Development Goals and the European and International framework through four strategic objectives: full commitment to a resilient food economy; food connecting farmers and citizens; circular and sustainable businesses for the future; healthy and sustainable food for all. Covering a comprehensive approach, the government defines six strategic themes with related actions: sustainable animal feed; sustainable animal production; increasing vegetable protein production; developing innovative protein sources; diversity in processing for diversity in supply; sustainable protein consumption. Targeted implementing actions focus on: reducing the impact of livestock farming on climate, the environment, biodiversity and water; increasing local cultivation of protein crops, such as soya and quinoa; increasing production and processing of novel protein sources (e.g. insects and algae); strengthening varied and balanced diets, taking into account health recommendations and an acceptable ecological footprint.
Belgium · 2021-02-01