The transition from animal-based to plant-based and alternative proteins is one of the most significant potential welfare improvements possible - but the transition must be managed to avoid unintended consequences.
The global protein transition represents a potential structural change of historic proportions for animal welfare. If successful, it would reduce the number of animals raised in intensive systems by billions annually. However, the transition's welfare benefits depend on what replaces animal protein - plant crops require agricultural land with its own wildlife welfare implications, and fermentation requires microbial cultivation that raises its own questions. Strategic support for protein transition that prioritises the highest-welfare alternatives while supporting farmers through change is the most defensible welfare-aligned approach.