Slowly shifting, not shattering. Examining the transformation of the Dutch meat regime through plant-based alternatives

Essay from the year 2024 in the subject Politics - Environmental Policy, grade: 9,0, Maastricht University (Maastricht Sustainability Institute), language: English, abstract: This essay examines the transition of the Dutch meat regime towards plant-based meat alternatives (PBMAs). By applying the Multi-level Perspective (MLP) framework, it analyses the role of niche innovations, regime shifts, and landscape pressures in driving change. While the protein transition in the Netherlands has led to some regime reorientation such as increasing consumer acceptance and business diversification, it remains a gradual process. Barriers including cultural norms and economic constraints continue to impede full disruption. The essay concludes with recommending a policy mix to support PBMAs while further destabilising the conventional meat industry.