Finland can significantly increase plant protein production by 2040 while enhancing food security and diversifying nutrition

Currently, over 60% of the protein consumed by Finns is animal-based. Plant-based protein products are expected to be one of the fastest-growing food categories in the coming years. Increasing domestic plant protein production can simultaneously improve food security, enhance the profitability of agriculture, diversify diets, and contribute to a more sustainable food system.

In a study commissioned by the Finnish innovation fund Sitra, we explored the potential for expanding Finland’s plant protein production. According to the study, the calculated protein needs of the Finnish population could be met entirely by domestic production by 2040. However, this transition requires substantial efforts across the entire food chain.

The cultivation area of domestic protein-rich crops such as peas, faba beans, rapeseed, and turnip rape could be tripled from the current 100,000 hectares to 300,000 hectares. Including other plant-based protein sources—such as cereals and vegetables—also opens significant export opportunities.

An increase in production does not automatically lead to higher consumption of plant proteins. Therefore, substantial investments are needed in areas such as processing technologies, product development, commercialization, and the profitable valorization of side streams.

Not all produced plant protein is suitable for food use. It would be most appropriate for the non-edible fractions to continue being used as feed in livestock production. Growth in plant protein production would also significantly increase the domestic supply of supplementary protein feed for animal husbandry.