Alternative protein innovation bolsters national security

Bolstering supply chain resilience and agility

According to the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), alternative proteins are less vulnerable to supply disruptions due to their simplified and localized production processes.² 

Producing plant-based, fermentation-derived, and cultivated meat requires fewer inputs—including land, water, and crops—and supply chain links.³  For example, plant-based meat requires up to 98 percent less land than conventional meat.⁴ 

In addition, alternative protein production facilities are adaptable to versatile locations and can be placed close to existing supply chains. Alternative protein production at scale can, therefore, improve the U.S. food system’s resistance to shocks and disruptions.

Promoting biosecurity in our food supply and global security

The U.S. supply chain for conventional meat is highly centralized, making it susceptible to potential attack or disruption—as demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic.⁵  According to CSIS, alternative protein production mitigates risks of potential agricultural bioterrorism. 

These technologies can insulate the country from attacks targeting agricultural production infrastructure and the introduction of animal diseases that could quickly compromise significant portions of our protein supply.⁶ Fermentation-derived, plant-based, and cultivated meat are protected from animal disease outbreaks, as they do not rely on livestock. An expanded alternative protein sector also promotes food security through supply chain diversification. Rising food demand is expected to coincide with declines in global crop yields.⁷  Expanding U.S. protein production can mitigate future food-related conflicts and humanitarian crises, allowing us to address rising food demand as the planet nears 10 billion people by 2050. As a high-value export industry, U.S. alternative protein companies will also help rebuild a U.S. trade surplus after years of agricultural trade deficits.⁸

Enabling point-of-need food production at military bases

Maintaining the readiness of military personnel and operational continuity depends on secure food supplies. With simplified production processes—requiring less land and other resources—alternative protein technologies enable point-of-need food production at military bases, at sea, or in space, in addition to producing healthy, nutritious ingredients for Meals Ready to Eat (MRE).⁹ 

Point-of-need production reduces logistical costs and saves lives. For example, between 2005 and 2011 the Department of Defense (DoD) spent $5.5 billion to deliver food to U.S. military sites in Afghanistan, and more than 300 truck drivers and security guards were killed in the process.¹⁰ For these reasons, DoD has invested in alternative protein innovation. According to the Pentagon: “The ability of the U.S. military to project power entails an equally imposing logistical chain to maintain stocks of food, water, medicines, fuel, and other supplies…DoD is actively investigating ways critical supplies are procured in addition to creating systems that can rapidly produce materials, including food onsite, when and where they are needed.”¹¹

Investing in alternative proteins is vital for national security

Alternative protein R&D and commercialization should be a top national priority. Sufficient public investment will fortify our food system, drive American innovation, and expand defense capabilities. By harnessing the power of alternative protein technologies, the United States can build a resilient food system and promote national security for future generations.