Plant-based and food-technology alternatives to conventionally produced animal proteins- known as Alternative Proteins - are experiencing unparalleled growth worldwide. This shift to more plant-based and more sustainable food is in line with efforts from governments all around the word to bolster food security and to reduce emissions as an instrument in the fight against climate change. Many new and innovative cultured meat and dairy products as well as sophisticated plant-based alternatives, such as precision-fermented products, are close to market entry or are already pressing into global markets. Global food systems are changing.

The regulatory pathway for bringing alternative protein products on the market differs from country to country. A number of governments understand the importance of sound regulation for alternative protein products and have already issued specific guidance or rules to ease the market approval process for these new products. On the other hand, manufacturers often face restrictions with regard to designation and labeling of their alternative protein products.

The Alternative Proteins Regulatory Tracker was created to provide an overview of global regulatory regimes for this emerging sector. At its launch in January 2023, the tracker already covers 10 jurisdictions, including the EU and its 27 member states. More jurisdictions will follow.

You can refer to our tracker to:

• Stay up-to-date with changes in the regulatory regimes for Alternative Proteins in different jurisdictions;
• Compare the regulatory approaches of different governments;
• Stay informed about new developments in regulatory regimes for Alternative Proteins.

Please send an email to alternative.proteins@dentons.com if you wish to receive information about major updates of the tracker, important legal developments in the Alternative Proteins sector and future events.

Go to the tracker