About The Protein Project

Our Mission

We unite Europe’s food voices to seize the opportunity of protein diversification.

Our work serves one overarching goal: achieving a more resilient, competitive, just, and sustainable food system in Europe, benefitting society at large. The Protein Project exists to advance protein diversification, by:

  • Connecting the disconnected
    We bring together stakeholders who rarely get the chance to collaborate: farmers, food producers, policymakers, researchers, and civil society around a shared goal.

  • Building consensus across divides
    We develop clear, actionable policy recommendations that balance various interests and create win-win solutions.


  • Uncovering new opportunities
    Besides environmental, animal welfare and health advantages, we spotlight how protein diversification enhances agricultural resilience, economic competitiveness, and strategic autonomy.


  • Charting profitable pathways
    We focus on practical solutions with strong business cases, ensuring transitions that are economically viable for all participants.

Why proteins

Although we carry the word “protein” in our name, we acknowledge that proteins are generally overconsumed in Europe and recognize that protein-rich foods fulfil a broader set of nutritional functions.  

At the same time, the future of the European food system is often presented in a polarizing manner. Important goals like supporting farmer’s livelihoods, maintaining the competitiveness of European businesses, protecting the environment, improving public health or ensuring animal welfare are frequently presented as trade-offs, rather than finding solutions that work for all.

Protein-rich foods sit at the center of these debates because of its cultural significance, economic importance and Europe’s heavy dependency on foreign land for protein production. By concentrating on this area, the Protein Project aims to maximise its chances of making significant and meaningful change in the food system.

Our Funders

The Protein Project is made possible by the generosity and strategic investments of two large philantropic foundations.

More information coming soon.