The New Food Forum conference held in Prague last week brought together key stakeholders from the Czech retail sector and alternative protein industries, where discussions highlighted the increasing availability of plant-based products in Czech supermarkets and the potential introduction of cultivated meat across Europe within the next two years.
“The start of selling cultivated meat in Europe is within reach”
Retail chains, including Tesco, confirmed commitments to expanding affordable plant-based options. Data presented at the event showed a rising trend among Czech consumers, especially younger demographics, favoring plant-based products. Milk alternatives currently lead the market, followed closely by meat substitutes, with approximately 70% of consumers purchasing these products repeatedly. The Czech plant-based market is estimated at CZK 1.42 billion.
Health considerations were identified as the primary motivation for choosing plant-based products, while pricing remains a significant factor influencing consumer decisions. Tesco responded to concerns about affordability by pledging enhanced discounts and a wider selection of private-label plant-based products.
Cultivated meat was a major topic during the conference. Roman Lauš, founder and CEO of the Brno-based cultivated meat company Mewery, stated during a panel discussion: “The start of selling cultivated meat in Europe is within reach. The first producer is about a year away from gaining approval and could then begin offering products in Europe, possibly even in Czechia. I believe we can expect cultivated meat on the European market within one to two years.” He also noted the importance of regulatory frameworks and government support, citing Singapore and the USA as examples of countries where cultivated meat products have entered the market.
Policy supports alternative proteins
The conference also addressed the role of government policy in accelerating alternative protein development. Louise Johansen, Head of Programmes at The Vegetarian Society of Denmark, outlined Denmark’s national action plan for plant-based foods, designed to support climate targets while promoting business growth and public health.
In the Czech context, the newly formed Czech Chamber of Alternative Proteins was introduced. The Chamber seeks to address regulatory challenges and limited state support for producers and sellers of animal-free products. Tereza Trávníčková from ProVeg Czechia described it as “the first Czech platform to openly advocate for the sector, which faces regulatory hurdles and a lack of state support.”
Plant-based menus gain popularity
The forum also included discussions on gastronomy, emphasizing increased consumer interest in plant-based dishes despite a traditionally conservative Czech food culture. Representatives from catering companies suggested strategies such as using seasonal and local ingredients, improving visual appeal of dishes, and offering tastings to encourage meat-eaters to try plant-based options.
The New Food Forum 2025 also presented awards for popular plant-based products in the Czech market. Bezmasna was named Most Popular Czech Plant-Based Brand, Vegan Monte by Zott received the award for most popular plant-based dairy alternative, and Ferrero’s Vegan Nutella was recognized as the most popular plant-based sweet.
The event took place under the patronage of Czech Minister of the Environment Petr Hladík, alongside the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the Czech Confederation of Commerce and Tourism, and CzechTrade agency. Tesco served as general retail partner, with Pavol Halász, Product Director for Tesco Czech Republic, noting: “Interest in plant-based products is growing among both our customers and colleagues, which is why we continuously expand and adapt our range to current trends.”
