Innovation ‘vital’ to meet growing protein demand

Despite all the micro-macro struggles that have besieged the meat industry of late, one resounding consolation for the collective global industry is this: meat consumption is only going up.

The World Watch Institute has predicted that by 2050, global demand for protein will double and the human race will consume an estimated 465 million tonnes of meat per year. This is because the global population by that point is excepted to have reached 9.7 billion.

In light of this, experts from Health for Animals have said it is “critical​” meat producers, especially in emerging economies where meat consumption is expected to rise fastest, utilise technology and science to supply meat demand.

‘Unavoidable realities’​

“Innovation in animal health is having a positive impact around the world, bridging the gap between developed and developing countries​," said Health for Animals executive director Carel du Marchie Sarvaas.

“New mobile technologies, as well as greater education and a proactive veterinary workforce are enabling smallholder farming to generate a sustainable source of food, alongside the bigger world players.​”

The company has said that the use of inexpensive mobile technology and software to help meat producers, especially farmers, with diagnostic assistance should be encouraged.

Demand for quality meat​

Health for Animals also accepted that technological progress within the meat industry can be slow and is often hindered by a shortage of clear guidance on what is and isn’t useful. Sarvaas added that is important for the industry to invest in technology to help farmers improve animal health.

“There are unavoidable realities that we will have to face in the coming years regarding feeding our growing population. Not only will there be more of us on the planet, there will also be increased demand for better quality animal protein. It is in the interest of all food producers to invest in keeping their animals healthy, as healthy animals are naturally more productive. It is vital for those within the animal health industry to support and promote these latest innovations to the wider world.​”