After the ‘plant-forward’ movement, the culinary landscape has seen a rising trend in ‘alt seafood’ or alternative seafood. As people become more conscious of their environmental impact and seek sustainable food options, the demand for plant-based and alternative protein sources has grown significantly. ‘Alt seafood’ refers to a range of products that aim to replicate the taste, texture, and nutritional profile of traditional seafood using non-animal-based ingredients.
Several companies and food innovators have been working on creating alt seafood products that are not only delicious but also more environmentally friendly compared to conventional seafood. These alternatives often use plant-based proteins, algae, seaweed, and other natural ingredients to mimic the flavors and textures of fish, shrimp, crab, and other seafood varieties.
The emergence of ‘alt seafood’ presents a promising solution to address the issues of overfishing, bycatch, and habitat destruction associated with traditional fishing methods. It also offers an option for those who follow vegetarian, vegan, or pescatarian diets to enjoy seafood-like dishes without compromising their dietary choices.
As the ‘alt seafood’ movement continues to gain traction, it is likely that we will see a broader range of alternative seafood products on the market, catering to different tastes and culinary preferences. Additionally, ongoing research and development in this field may lead to even more innovative and sustainable ways to produce alternative seafood, further reducing the environmental impact of our food choices.
