The global demand for food is expected to nearly double by 2050, prompting the exploration of alternative proteins (APs) as a sustainable solution to ensure food security. This review examines the challenges and environmental impacts of four main categories of APs: plant-based, insect-based, microbe-derived, and cultured meat and seafood. While plant-based and insect-based proteins have documented environmental benefits, the impacts of microbe-derived proteins and cultured meat are less understood. The development of AP products with similar nutritional and sensory profiles to conventional foods remains challenging, and incomplete safety assessments and lack of clear regulatory guidelines complicate the industry. The review highlights the need for further research on the environmental impacts, technological advancements, nutritional profiles, safety concerns, and regulatory frameworks to support the sustainable development and utilization of APs. Despite these challenges, the growing trend of APs presents opportunities for technological innovations and diversification of protein sources, driven by the search for healthier and more sustainable alternatives.The global demand for food is expected to nearly double by 2050, prompting the exploration of alternative proteins (APs) as a sustainable solution to ensure food security. This review examines the challenges and environmental impacts of four main categories of APs: plant-based, insect-based, microbe-derived, and cultured meat and seafood. While plant-based and insect-based proteins have documented environmental benefits, the impacts of microbe-derived proteins and cultured meat are less understood. The development of AP products with similar nutritional and sensory profiles to conventional foods remains challenging, and incomplete safety assessments and lack of clear regulatory guidelines complicate the industry. The review highlights the need for further research on the environmental impacts, technological advancements, nutritional profiles, safety concerns, and regulatory frameworks to support the sustainable development and utilization of APs. Despite these challenges, the growing trend of APs presents opportunities for technological innovations and diversification of protein sources, driven by the search for healthier and more sustainable alternatives.