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The Water Footprint of Common Foods: An Alt-Protein Investment Opportunity

Discover the water footprint of common foods and how alt-protein investments can help manage this precious resource.

రచయిత SV Ramanujam4 నిమి. చదువుHyderabad, IN
Vertical farm with water-drip irrigation in a desert
Humane Foundation

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.

Water footprint of various foods
Source: Water Footprint Network, 2021Humane Foundation
FoodWater footprint (litres/kg)
Beef15,400
Dairy1,020
Soy2,007
Wheat1,642
Potatoes280
Tofu2,300
Water footprint of selected foods. Source: Water Footprint Network, 2021

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

Source: The Good Food Institute, 2021

How to invest in alt-protein

  1. 1

    Step 1

    Identify alt-protein companies with a focus on water efficiency and sustainability.

  2. 2

    Step 2

    Conduct thorough due diligence on their technology, team, and business model.

  3. 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.

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