The production of animal products generates the majority of food-related greenhouse-gas emissions — up to 78% of total agricultural emissions. And given the projected growth in the global population, the future demand for protein is expected to increase significantly. In response, plant-based proteins have been headline grabbing and appearing in greater numbers in recent years. But what are the top five innovative plant-based proteins of the future?

1. Volcanic Fungi

Our first innovative protein comes from Nature’s Fynd, who have recently created a vegan protein sourced from a volcanic microorganism found in Yellowstone National Park.

Their product, called Fy™, is grown using the company’s “breakthrough fermentation technology.” Nature’s Fynd has already used the vegan protein in their chicken nugget and chocolate mouse products, and plan to bring more fungi-based food products to the market in 2021. 

2. Spirulina

Spirulina is blue-green algae, which is often hailed as a superfood. Importantly it is very high in protein. In fact protein makes up 70% of Spirulina's dry weight. Spirulina grows in microscopic spirals, which are easy to harvest. It has an intense blue-green color, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allows manufacturers to use it as a colour additive. 

3. Artichoke Hearts 

Artichokes can reduce the risk of certain cancers, heart disease, obesity and diabetes. A medium artichoke contains 4.2 grams of protein. Artichoke extract, which contains high concentrations of compounds found in the plant, has become an increasingly popular supplement.

4. Mycoprotein

Mycoprotein is another innovative plant-based protein of the future. It is made from Fusarium venenatum, a naturally occurring fungus, and is best known as the key ingredient used in Quorn products, which are sold in 19 countries worldwide. It is processed for food via fermentation, followed by steaming and freezing. Importantly it consist of 41% protein, which is higher than most meat products. 

5. Pea Protein

About 90% of a pea is protein. Meat and eggs come with saturated fats and extra calories, but pea protein doesn’t. A single serving of pea protein powder can net you around 90 to 120 calories and 17 to 24 grams of protein. And it also contains all nine essential amino acids— valine, phenylalanine, threonine, methionine, tryptophan, isoleucine, lysine, histidine, and leucine. Because of these health benefits, the popularity of organic pea proteins is increasing with the millennial population. In fact, the organic pea protein market is predicted to rise at a substantial growth rate of 7% over the forecast period of 2020-2030, as the inclination of consumers toward plant-based diets continues to increase. 

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