Biotechnology: a building block for an international protein showcase?
How can the Netherlands strengthen its international position in the protein space? What do we already have to offer—and what could we showcase more effectively or make better use of? Foodvalley is currently exploring these questions, with funding from the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature (LVVN).
“We’re at the start of an open exploration,” says Jeroen Willemsen, Lead Protein Transition at Foodvalley. “And we’re inviting the whole chain to think along with us.”
THE STUDY: Spotting opportunities
“The international protein market is on the move,” says Willemsen. “We’re in the roaring twenties of protein. Around the world, there’s growing demand for protein autonomy, food security, and more sustainable ways of producing protein-rich food. These needs represent enormous economic opportunities for the Netherlands—we have the knowledge and technology to meet them.”
So: which international opportunities exist in which regions? How can we seize them—and which ones should we prioritise? These are the questions the Ministry of LVVN is looking to answer. That’s why, in March 2025, Foodvalley launched a feasibility study into the international protein landscape, with funding from LVVN and in collaboration with Larive International.
“In the months ahead, we’ll be working with businesses, governments, knowledge institutions and investors to explore what the focus of an international protein strategy could be—and what it could deliver for the Netherlands,” says Willemsen. “We’ll map the needs of both Dutch and international stakeholders, identify the areas where we excel, and assess our economic potential in the protein domain. Based on this, we’ll develop a recommendation—one that considers both food and feed.”
THE HYPOTHESIS: From kilos to knowledge
Initial talks with stakeholders have already taken place, says Willemsen. “And one promising direction has emerged: there seems to be strong potential in commercialising and exporting Dutch knowledge and technology. Not just edible ingredients and products – but also our expertise in fermentation and biotechnology, data-driven process optimisation, and smart chain and systems design.”
These are areas where the Netherlands is leading the way – and attracting international admiration, says Willemsen. “Our knowledge and technologies have huge economic potential on the global market. By making them more visible and marketable, we can unlock that potential.”
This hypothesis builds on the insights of previous initiatives, including Future Protein NL, the name under which the Netherlands has presented itself internationally in the protein space since 2021. It also aligns with the strategic narrative ‘The Netherlands: a protein-rich nation’ launched in 2023.
Willemsen: “In the narrative, ‘The Netherlands: a protein-rich nation,’ traditional protein companies – those working in dairy and meat – are seen as playing a key international role. These companies bring decades of experience, economies of scale, strong international reputations and deep knowledge in areas like biotechnology and fermentation.
That fits beautifully with the new insights and expertise coming from knowledge institutions and emerging ventures. So we don’t need to choose between traditional companies and stakeholders focused on alternative proteins. In fact, connecting them is what sets us apart internationally—and it’s what will maximise our impact: economically, environmentally, and in terms of public health. I’m curious to see whether the stakeholders we’ll be speaking to in the coming months share that view!”
AN IDEA: The future protein NL showcase
One topic that comes up in nearly every conversation is the need for a better way to showcase Dutch knowledge and innovation abroad. “Countries like Canada and Singapore have developed digital showrooms where they present their offerings in a clear and engaging way,” says Willemsen. “There’s definitely something to be learned from that. We already have the knowledge, the technology, the partnerships and the investment opportunities to fill a showcase of our own.”
One potential asset is the Protein Transition Map NL—an interactive online map featuring over 500 Dutch organisations involved in alternative proteins. “Foodvalley developed this tool in collaboration with the Transition Coalition for Food, the Ministry of LVVN, and several Dutch provinces,” Willemsen explains.
What might go in such a showcase? “Think of the technology developed by DSM to extract protein from rapeseed—that’s now being used in France. Or Rival Foods, a Dutch start-up that transforms plant-based proteins into meat-like textures, supported by investment from Roquette.” He also points to the role of Dutch supermarkets. “They’ve committed to making 60% of their protein offerings plant-based by 2030—and they’ve developed standardised measurement methods to support that shift. That’s unique in the world!”
Willemsen: “Many of the stakeholders we speak to feel a real sense of urgency around sharing protein-related knowledge and technology,” says Willemsen. “They see the need to use resources more intelligently—to keep food affordable and the planet liveable. They also recognise the health benefits of a more balanced diet, for example in tackling overconsumption and obesity.
What we’re hearing is: we have the knowledge, technology and networks to help drive solutions—so let’s share them. And not for charity. People believe there’s real value here. They see the economic opportunity. Just consider that in 2023, the Dutch alternative protein sector already generated €880 million annually—and with the right strategy, it could grow to €10 billion by 2030, with a proportional increase in employment. That combination of ethical and economic motivation is really powerful.”
THE INVITATION: share your perspective
“I’m already really pleased with the ideas we’ve gathered so far,” says Willemsen. “But this is just the beginning—there’s still plenty of time to explore other ideas as well.”
He invites everyone with a stake in Dutch protein exports to join the conversation. “Share your perspective. Send us your examples. Help us identify what the Netherlands needs—and where the biggest opportunities lie.”
The feasibility study will run through to the end of 2025 and includes two main consultation rounds. The first is largely complete. Now begins the second, in which Foodvalley and Larive International will validate, deepen and develop the input gathered so far.
Willemsen: “We’ll be testing some of our first insights soon at the World Expo in Japan, during a trade mission focused on alternative proteins.” Ultimately, all this input will feed into a final recommendation. “One that most stakeholders will recognise themselves in—and one that will help position the Netherlands as a global guide in the international protein transition.”
Want to contribute? We’d love to hear from you.
What do you think of the ‘From Kilos to Knowledge’ hypothesis? Where should the focus lie when it comes to protein exports? And would you like to share your innovation or partnership opportunity with the world?
Email your ideas, examples and suggestions to jeroen.willemsen@foodvalley.nl