Conference Agenda

A rapid increase in global population and wealth has led to a growing demand for animal-based foods, posing significant environmental and health challenges. This study examines the relationship between GDP per capita and the supply of animal-based foods and pro- teins, using country-level panel data and a polynomial model to explore the Environmental Kuznets Curve hypothesis. Results indicate that GDP per capita significantly influences both the quantity and share of animal-based foods and proteins, though the relationship is complex and varies by income level. An N-shaped relationship is observed for the share of animal proteins, with turning points at $36,000 and $57,000, while animal food supply increases across all GDP levels but at a slower rate, around $46,000–$49,000. Animal foods and proteins are inelastic with respect to GDP, with income elasticity turning negative for the share of animal proteins between $36,000 and $56,000. Moreover, regional differences are notable: while we see an inverted U-shaped relationship in Europe and a subtle N-shaped pattern in Asia, the results suggest a linear trend in Africa and Latin America. Overall, our findings imply that economic growth alone will not solve the issue of increased animal consumption and its associated negative health and environmental impacts.