The veggie burger made its debut in 1982. Since then, there has been a race to invent a creative, delicious alternative to meat. Today, meat alternatives flood grocery stores and appear on fast-food restaurant menus. So, is meat consumption in decline?

The numbers all point to a clear answer: no. In fact, meat consumption is on the rise.

There is a growing appetite for plant-based alternatives. Yet, the global appetite for meat as a primary protein source persists. According to Statista, the global volume of meat sold was 155.5 billion kg in 2023. Experts predict it will increase to 184.4 billion kg in 2029.

This sustained demand necessitates a paradigm shift in protein production. One that prioritizes efficiency, sustainability and innovation. To meet this challenge, the protein industry is embracing advanced technological solutions. Product lifecycle management (PLM) systems are at the forefront.

Unified connection

PLM solutions are transforming fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sectors, including food and beverage. By managing end-to-end workflows, PLM systems establish a single source of truth. These workflows drive efficiency and accuracy. Digital transformation offers profound benefits to the protein industry. The industry encompasses meat, poultry, meat substitutes and processed meat products.

A core advantage of PLM is its ability to dismantle departmental silos. PLM streamlines workflows and fosters seamless collaboration. This technology unites research and development (R&D), procurement, compliance, legal, packaging and supplier interactions in one digital platform. This unified approach speeds up time to market. It also cuts down on transcription errors from extra data entry. Plus, it ensures packaging and labeling are accurate. PLM automates routine tasks. This allows protein producers to focus on innovation and strategic growth.

Leading producers are seeing the benefits of PLM. Ms. Fan Hongbo, Head of R&D at Dachan Food, states:

“We believe that digital transformation is the ideal path for a top-tier company. While the digitalization of R&D project management may not have started as early as some of our other digital initiatives, we view it as a strong move for creating a second growth curve and boosting product competitiveness.”

From farm to fork

The protein industry, particularly meat production, presents unique complexities. Meat production starts with live animals. Live animals introduce factors like nutrition, health and living conditions. These all affect product quality and sustainability. PLM solutions offer clear transparency and traceability from farm to fork.

Detailed traceability is paramount. PLM systems track every step in production. They start from the source of animal or plant-based proteins and go all the way to the final product. Transparency is vital. Building consumer trust and managing foodborne illness recalls are essential for public health.

Sustainability and ethical sourcing are increasingly critical. PLM monitors environmental impact. This includes tracking water use, greenhouse gas emissions and waste management. The technology makes it easier to conduct audits and obtain certifications for ethical sourcing. This covers areas like animal welfare and fair labor standards. Consumers are becoming more aware of sustainable and ethical practices.

PLM enables the tracking and management of various certifications. These certifications include organic, grass-fed and free-range. Automated notifications ensure timely renewal and maintenance of compliance. PLM facilitates the management of complex vendor contracts. It includes detailed requirements for livestock and feed components. Advanced features like machine learning and AI-powered algorithms assist in optimization.

PLM offers several specific advantages for protein producers. Defining, standardizing and automating process flows cuts delays. Companies can share information rapidly between departments. As a result, PLM boosts operational efficiency and reduces bottlenecks.

Regulatory compliance

As regulations grow tighter, especially around ESG standards, PLM offers detailed regulatory information. It connects with specialized databases to meet both domestic and international rules. PLM systems gather and examine data from different sources like market intelligence or pricing solutions, providing insights into production trends, consumer preferences and market demand. This information allows for more accurate forecasting and planning. It also optimizes inventory management and cuts down on waste.

Predictive analytics capabilities anticipate issues before they arise, alerting managers. PLM integrates with quality control systems and regulatory platforms like FoodChain ID, which tracks and manages quality control data and shifting regulations from 220 countries.

Vendor portals within PLM facilitate supplier collaboration, performance evaluation and risk management. These portals allow for supplier audits. Protein producers can seamlessly meet quality and safety standards. Communication becomes streamlined.

Innovation and the value add

To enhance profitability, protein producers are increasingly focusing on value-added products. PLM supports innovation by providing visual tools for assortment planning and analysis. In the plant-based protein sector, PLM handles the challenges of creating products. This includes sourcing ingredients, managing allergens and ensuring proper nutritional labeling. It also supports companies in keeping up with the rapid product development cycle. PLM handles complex recipes and processes in processed meat. This ensures that the product is always safe and of high quality.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are transforming PLM. New technology allows for automation, predictive analytics and smart decision-making. This includes AI-driven quality control, automated compliance with regulations and tailored product development.

Seamless integration

Internet of Things (IoT) sensors and devices connect with PLM. They provide real-time data on production, equipment performance and environmental conditions. This integration optimizes production efficiency and reduces waste.

Protein producers can optimize their businesses and spark innovation by adopting digital transformation with PLM. Through this approach, companies meet the rising global demand for protein. It also ensures responsible and sustainable production practices.

Protein producers may create the world’s best veggie burger. When they do, PLM will see them through—from concept to the corner market.