Policy
Plant-based and cultivated meat offer clear solutions to major national and global challenges — the very issues governments exist to address. As a nonprofit working toward a sustainable global food system, GFI advocates fair policy and public research funding for alternative proteins.
What our work supports
We work to secure government support for alternative protein research and advocate public policy that places all proteins on a level playing field. Public support and fair policy will ensure that alternative proteins are affordable and accessible, leading to a more resilient food supply, more choices for consumers, and a stronger economy.
Driving a strong economy
From semiconductors to solar power, publicly funded research has enabled the success of the most significant innovations since World War II. These innovations have driven economic growth. In the same way, publicly funded research on alternative proteins will stimulate economic growth, provide more opportunities for farmers, and create good jobs.
Creating choices for consumers
The market for plant-based foods has seen rapid growth in recent years. More and more people are also excited about cultivated meat and alternative proteins produced through fermentation. These alternative proteins offer an opportunity to provide consumers with the variety they crave. We advocate clear and efficient regulations so that more foods come to market safely and properly labeled.
Building a resilient food supply
Demand for meat is at an all-time high and is expected to continue to rise. Diversifying our food supply by growing the alternative protein sector will pay dividends in terms of both global health and sustainability, which will make our food supply more resilient.
Policy initiatives
GFI’s Policy Team is an interdisciplinary team of lawyers, lobbyists, and policy experts. Guided by a belief in societal change and grounded in science, we focus on three primary initiatives to advance alternative proteins. GFI’s international affiliates do similar work abroad.
Securing government funding
Government support will accelerate the growth of alternative proteins. Learn how GFI works to secure public funds for alternative protein research.
Cultivated meat regulation
Cultivated meat must have an efficient regulatory path to market to be successful. Learn how GFI advocates clear and efficient regulations.
Advocating fair public policy
Alternative proteins need a fair competitive landscape. Learn how GFI advocates fair public policy that places all proteins on a level playing field.
Open-access research is needed
Open-access research will accelerate the progress of plant-based and cultivated meat, which will benefit the economy, food security, and consumers.
Resource
Cultivated meat LCA and TEA: Policy recommendations
See key findings from and policy recommendations based on CE Delft’s life cycle assessment and techno-economic assessment of cultivated meat.
Our submissions to policymakers
GFI submits public comments to policymakers in order to advance alternative proteins strategically and with integrity.
Meet our policy experts
Jessica Almy, J.D.
DIRECTOR OF POLICY
Jessica Almy, J.D., leads GFI’s Policy team in setting legislative and regulatory strategy to promote fair policies and public research for plant-based, cultivated, and fermented foods.
Areas of expertise: regulation, legislation, science and public policy, public health, environmental law, food policy.
Elizabeth Derbes, J.D., MPH
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF REGULATORY AFFAIRS
Elizabeth Derbes oversees our U.S. regulatory strategy and coordinates with our affiliates regarding alternative protein regulation outside the United States.
Areas of expertise: regulation, legislation, public health, science and public policy, environmental health, food policy.
Michael Ryan
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF POLICY
Michael Ryan manages GFI’s legislative initiatives and executive branch funding advocacy.
Areas of expertise: Congress, appropriations, legislative procedure, legislative strategy.
Comment to USDA on climate change and alternative proteins
Comment to NOAA on alternative seafood and climate change
Comment on the National Milk Producers Federation Citizen Petition