The global food system consumes an alarming amount of water, with agriculture accounting for 70% of freshwater withdrawals worldwide. One way to address this issue is by investing in alternative protein sources, which can significantly reduce water usage.
The Water Footprint of Common Foods
Meat, dairy, and soy are some of the most water-intensive foods. The water footprint of beef is the highest, followed by dairy and soy. By switching to plant-based alternatives, we can significantly reduce our water footprint.

| Food | Water footprint (litres/kg) |
|---|---|
| Beef | 15,400 |
| Dairy | 1,020 |
| Soy | 2,007 |
| Wheat | 1,642 |
| Potatoes | 280 |
| Tofu | 2,300 |
Enter Alt-Protein: A Water-Saving Opportunity
Alt-protein companies are developing sustainable, water-efficient protein sources. From plant-based burgers to cultured meat, these innovations can help reduce the water footprint of our food system.
Water savings potential of alt-protein
Navigating the Alt-Protein Landscape
How to invest in alt-protein
- 1
Step 1
Identify alt-protein companies with a focus on water efficiency and sustainability.
- 2
Step 2
Conduct thorough due diligence on their technology, team, and business model.
- 3
Step 3
Consider the potential environmental and financial returns of your investment.
Frequently asked questions
Which alt-protein source has the lowest water footprint?+
Plant-based proteins like tofu and tempeh have the lowest water footprint, using up to 98% less water compared to beef.
How can I find sustainable alt-protein investments?+
Look for alt-protein companies focusing on water efficiency, sustainability, and positive environmental impact. Consider both financial and environmental returns.









