LAS NUEVAS TENDENCIAS EN LA PRODUCCIÓN Y CONSUMO ALIMENTARIO COMO OPORTUNIDADES DE INVERSIÓN EMPRESARIAL EN LA CIUDAD DE SUCRE

Abstract

The demand and consumption of food are undergoing significant changes, driven by factors such as climate change, health concerns (accentuated by the COVID-19 pandemic), and environmental sustainability. By 2050, a global population of 9.7 billion people is projected, which will require a 70% increase in food production. However, this production has had a negative impact on the environment, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and deforestation1.

In Bolivia, the growth of agriculture and livestock has led to an increasing deterioration of natural resources. Concerns about food security intensify as temperatures rise. Additionally, there is growing concern about health, with high rates of malnutrition and overweight in Sucre.

The Bolivian food industry has experienced growth in domestic production but also in food imports, whose diversification is essential to meet changing consumer demands. Transformations in consumer preferences have motivated this research to explore the following food trends: alternative proteins (insects and fungi), plant-based foods, vertical agriculture, and 3D food printing technology. These products offer nutritional advantages and promote more sustainable production.

This exploratory study suggests that these new food trends have the potential to become investment opportunities in Sucre. However, greater awareness and education about these products are required for widespread adoption. Collaboration between businesses, research institutions, and the government can create a favorable ecosystem for these trends, and it is essential to consider sustainability in food production.