Food Frontier’s AltProteins 25 is set to take place in New South Wales for the first time, showcasing companies working in the alternative proteins sector at the southern hemisphere’s biggest conference for the industry.
Alternative proteins are produced from plant or animal cells and consumed as substitutes for meat and seafood. As 21 per cent per cent of the Australian population chooses to reduce their meat consumption, alternative protein options, such as plant-based meats, are becoming more popular.
In 2023, Food Frontier’s State of the Industry Report found New South Wales could be home to a $765 million alternative proteins industry by 2033, generating up to 8000 jobs. Demand from Asia is already strong, with the meat substitutes market expected to grow annually by 33 per cent, reaching US$13.6 billion by 2027.
However, Food Frontier also found government funding for alternative proteins in Australia was comparatively lower than all similar socioeconomically positioned nations. These included the UK, Germany, Singapore, Israel, the US, Denmark, China, South Korea, The Netherlands and Canada.
Events like the AltProteins Conference help to better showcase the Australian innovation in the sector, and acts as a catalyst for attracting further investment to the industry in NSW and promoting export opportunities. The 2024 edition had a turnout of over 350 people across the industry.
Following a three-year stint in Melbourne, it will come to Sydney for the first time in October 2025, bringing together experts, businesses, and investors to advance the alternative proteins industry.
New South Wales is home to a group of innovative companies in all alternative protein sectors, including plant-based meat, cultured meat, and precision fermentation. Nearly half of the sector’s Australian businesses are based in NSW, including Harvest B, Vow, and All G Foods.
Investment New South Wales executive director, Maroun El Khoury, said the state is already leading in plant-based food, cultured meat and precision fermentation.
“Hosting next year’s conference will enable New South Wales to take full advantage of the economic opportunity the sector represents, including for regional communities right across the state.”
The conference will also promote the state’s leading academic organisations to a global audience, which are driving innovation and producing cutting-edge research. Around 500 attendees are expected, including retailers, investors, traditional food organisations, government representatives, and companies from small startups to large multinationals.
Food Frontier CEO, Dr Simon Eassom, said the team was delighted to bring the AltProteins conference to Sydney for the first time.
“We recognise NSW as a driving force behind the growth of the sector in Australia,” said Eassom.
“The event brings together all the key players in the region’s alternative proteins ecosystem, providing an invaluable opportunity to build partnerships and realise the full economic potential of this innovative food industry.”
