The meat industry has evolved significantly over the past few centuries. In the early days, meat was a luxury item that was only enjoyed by the wealthy and not on the daily. However, as the Industrial Revolution progressed, meat became more affordable and accessible to the public. This led to a boom in the meat industry as new technologies and methods were developed to produce meat more efficiently.

One of the most significant changes in the meat industry was the rise of factory farming. Meat had mostly been raised and processed on small family run farms and sold locally. Factory farming took the meat ball and ran with it. A system of raising livestock in extensive, concentrated facilities, it allows producers to increase large numbers of animals quickly and cheaply. Although these facilities have certainly improved since the Industrial Revolution, it is still being criticized for its negative impact on animal welfare and the environment.

Another recent significant change in the meat industry has been the rise of plant-based meat alternatives. Plant-based meat alternatives are made from many plant-based ingredients, such as soy, wheat, and pea protein. Many are designed to look, taste, and feel like real meat. Plant-based meat alternatives have become increasingly popular as consumers become more concerned about meat production's health and the overwhelming environmental impacts.

As the global population (including the significant growth of the global middle class) is expected to reach 9 billion by 2050, the meat industry is facing many challenges to keep up with the growing demand. New technologies are coming forth to make being ecologically sustainable and profitable at the same time possible. Vertical farming and gene editing are a few new developments that could help with the meat protein demand. With plant-based alternatives hot on the meat trail, can both the big meat industry and plants step up for the world at large?

The fact of the matter is the meat industry is at a crossroads. It can either continue with business as usual or adapt to the changing needs of consumers and the environment. The future of the meat industry will depend on the choices made today.

My query is a basic question: Where do you see our industry heading? Share your insights and prognostications. Thank you and Live Well always.

Cheers

Evolving meat industry: What's next?

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