Should startups go all-in or wait and see?
Alternative protein startups are facing one of the main challenges when it comes to price parity with traditional foods- a shortage in some cases and a rise in prices in others. However, the avian flu, which hit poultry production hard, may provide an “in” for these startups to prove their worth.
While egg prices are soaring, Americans are turning to other protein sources for their next meal. As the avian flu sweeps across the nation, killing millions of chickens and turkeys, shoppers have reconsidered purchasing eggs and may switch to poultry alternatives in the near future. Unless local poultry production can keep up with demand, consumers may see even higher food prices as a result.
To say that the poultry industry is facing a bit of a dilemma at the moment would be an understatement. On one hand, 334 human cases have been confirmed in the United States, with many more undoubtedly unreported given our society’s reluctance to talk about medical issues. Meanwhile, data released by the USDA shows that cases of avian flu are down significantly from last month – but this could be short lived as wild birds migrate in the spring and bringalong any remaining virus. In other words, we’re going to face some tough decisions and challenges over the next few months as we try to figure out how best to secure our food supplies while ensuring public safety.
Alternative egg companies are racing to get their products to market in order to capture a share of the burgeoning food industry. While this might seem like an opportunity, some startup representatives I spoke with cautioned that alternative egg companies should not try to compete with larger players on price alone. They should instead focus on creating unique flavors and products that will attract consumers.alternative eggs, startups
