Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
International Balıkesir Academic Research Congress on Health Sciences, Balıkesir, Türkiye, 10 - 12 Ekim 2025, ss.444-447, (Tam Metin Bildiri)
The global population is expected to approach 10 billion by 2050, creating immense challenges for ensuring food security and sustainable nutrition. One of the most pressing concerns is the increasing demand for protein. Projections indicate that by the middle of this century, humanity will require an additional 265 million tons of protein, which represents nearly a 50% increase compared to current consumption levels. Meeting this demand with conventional livestock-based production systems would place a tremendous burden on natural resources, while also accelerating greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation. Adequate, healthy, reliable, and nutritious food is essential for sustaining life. With the depletion of food and water resources, climate change, and population growth, interest in alternative food sources has begun to increase. The search for sustainable and innovative protein sources continues to protect people from food insecurity. Insects, microalgae, and cultured meat are the leading alternative protein sources. Alternative protein sources are environmentally advantageous due to lower greenhouse gas emissions and reduced water and land use. These characteristics enable them to play a significant role in combating climate change and conserving natural resources. However, it should be noted that sustainability is not limited to the production aspect; consumer acceptance, cultural habits, and policy support are also critical factors in the success of this process. Alternative protein sources offer a promising solution for meeting future food demand and reducing environmental impacts. However, for this potential to be realized, technological innovations must be supported, consumer awareness must be raised, and sustainability-focused policies must be developed.