Two innovations are shaking up the industry

The Swiss company Planted has developed a plant-based steak that resembles a real meat steak in terms of appearance and consistency. “The texture and taste of a classic steak are strikingly recreated using natural ingredients such as pea protein, canola oil and plant fiber,” explains Planted.

The steak, which was launched in March, sold well, but demand was so high that it was temporarily unavailable in stores. To further meet demand, Planted is building a factory in Germany that is scheduled to go into operation at the end of the first quarter of 2025.

The market for meat alternatives is growing slower than expected, but Planted sees great potential, especially in European countries. According to the “Sonntagszeitung”, the company is helping to reduce meat consumption, which is crucial for achieving climate goals.

A powder against methane emissions

The product was developed in Switzerland by the company DSM Firmenich in Kaiseraugst AG. “Bovaer has been tested worldwide for over 15 years,” the company explains. It is now available in 59 countries, including Japan and Canada. But Bovaer has its pitfalls: the methane-lowering effect only lasts as long as the cow eats the additive.

“The cows shouldn’t stay on the pasture for too long, otherwise Bovaer won’t work,” say experts. Bovaer is also expensive, making it difficult for many farmers to use. But the product could make an important contribution to reducing emissions in agriculture and thus reduce the carbon footprint.

These Swiss Innovations 2024 show that the country continues to play a leading role in the development of new technologies that can impact not only the local market but also global markets.