Ash Kalra to lead California assembly panel on alternative proteins

Kalra, 53, a Democrat representing California’s 25th Assembly District, will lead the committee as it explores the economic and environmental potential of alternative proteins.

Ash Kalra. / Wikipedia

Ash Kalra, the first Indian American elected to the California State Assembly and a former San Jose City Council member, has been appointed Chair of the newly created Assembly Select Committee on Alternative Protein Innovation. The appointment was made by Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas.

Kalra, 53, a Democrat representing California’s 25th Assembly District, will lead the committee as it explores the economic and environmental potential of alternative proteins, including plant-based, cell-based, and fermented options.

“I am thankful Speaker Rivas has established the Select Committee on Alternative Protein Innovation,” Kalra said. “The focus of this Committee is not just about fostering a vibrant alternative protein research and economy in California, but also putting forth climate solutions in our food systems. Our state is a leader in alternative protein innovation and home to the first major plant-based protein companies, the first-ever cultivated meat startups, and numerous inventive fermentation food companies.”

He added, “I look forward to holding informational hearings on the topic of growing this new economy and how it can support California’s climate and food sustainability goals.”

In 2022, Kalra secured $5 million in state funding for the University of California to advance research on alternative proteins.

Supporters say the alternative protein sector could reduce the environmental toll of global food production, which contributes roughly one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions. These protein sources require less land, water, and energy, and avoid the methane emissions tied to conventional livestock.

Kalra was first elected to the Assembly in 2016 and re-elected to his fifth term in 2024. He also chairs the Assembly Judiciary Committee and sits on the Housing & Community Development, Labor & Employment, Natural Resources, and Utilities & Energy committees. His district includes most of San José and parts of southeast Santa Clara County.

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