(The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.) Merritt Drewery, Texas State University (THE CONVERSATION) The world’s population is growing, and so is the challenge of feeding everyone. Current projections indicate that by 2050, global food demand could increase by 59%-98% above current levels. In particular, there will be increased demand for high-quality protein foods, such as meat and dairy products. Livestock producers in the U.