Two Interconnected Truths About the Future
Global reports highlight two major, interconnected realities about the future of humanity:
- The world population will continue to grow rapidly, and with that,
- Our need for protein—even more than carbohydrates and fats—will surge significantly.
According to future projections, we will need 75% more protein than we currently consume. This dramatic rise in protein demand is not solely due to population growth. The real driver is the increase in global prosperity.
As developing countries evolve into emerging economies, and nations like Turkey transition toward developed status, meat, milk, eggs, and other protein-rich foods are being consumed in greater quantities. The real story behind the numbers is clear: rising prosperity drives rising protein consumption.
A Glimpse into Europe: What It Tells Us
In the 2023–2024 period, the European Union consumed 64 million tons of protein, of which 19 million tons were imported.
This isn’t just a European concern. It’s a direct wake-up call for countries like Turkey that rely heavily on imported protein sources, especially soy.
The Strategic Role of Plant-Based Proteins in Agriculture
Soybeans, lentils (green and red), chickpeas, fava beans, beans, sunflower seeds—these protein-rich crops are becoming increasingly vital.
Why?
- They reduce dependence on imports for livestock feed
- They increase crop yield the following year (thanks to nitrogen fixation by legumes)
- They support both plant and animal agriculture simultaneously
- And they’re a natural, sustainable source of essential nutrients
It’s worth noting: in many studies, planting legumes can boost the yield of cereals planted in the same field the next year by up to 30%. In other words, plant-based proteins are not just nutrition—they are productivity boosters in agriculture.
A Call for National Action: Turkey Needs a “Plant Protein Roadmap”
Turkey urgently needs to develop a Plant-Based Protein Roadmap. This isn’t just about agricultural strategy—it’s about:
- Food security
- Sustainable livestock production
- Reducing import dependency
- Improving public health through better nutrition
Combining fruit and vegetable production with a mindset that values nutritional content would transform our agricultural landscape.
