Cultivated meat poised to add €85 billion to EU economy, create 90,000 jobs by 2050 with right investments and policies

The Good Food Institute Europe and Systemiq recently released a report emphasizing cultivated meat's potential to transform the EU’s economy and environmental footprint. According to the analysis, cultivated meat could contribute up to €85 billion and create approximately 90,000 jobs across the EU by 2050. However, achieving this impact will require an estimated €5 billion in annual investments from the EU. Globally, the industry could be valued at around €510 billion, with necessary global investments reaching €55 billion annually until 2050.

Systemiq’s findings highlight the crucial role cultivated meat could play in achieving the EU’s sustainability goals. By potentially reducing agricultural land use by up to a third and cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 3.5 gigatons, cultivated meat offers a pathway to significantly lower the environmental impact of food production. “Cultivated meat can play a key role in a more sustainable food system, helping us meet the EU’s climate targets and conserve vital resources,” Systemiq stated. They also emphasize the reduced water use associated with cultivated meat, as it requires only a fraction of the resources needed to produce conventional meat.

GFI Europe’s report underscores the need for a robust regulatory framework to support cultivated meat's growth. The EU’s regulatory landscape, though currently progressing, could benefit from more targeted support for research, innovation, and scaled production. GFI Europe’s policy director suggests that “with the right policies in place, the EU could establish itself as a global leader in cultivated meat, driving not only economic growth but also sustainable food innovation.” In particular, regulatory clarity and collaboration between the EU and its member states will be crucial in creating a competitive market for cultivated meat.

The report also addresses consumer acceptance, which will be vital to cultivated meat’s success. Consumer awareness of cultivated meat's environmental and ethical benefits is on the rise, and the GFI emphasizes that public engagement and education are key. “Cultivated meat has the potential to address consumers’ concerns around animal welfare and environmental impact,” stated the report, highlighting the opportunity for the EU to lead in this innovative food sector by fostering greater awareness and acceptance.

In addition to these economic and environmental benefits, the cultivated meat industry presents a unique opportunity to enhance food security within the EU. By diversifying protein sources, cultivated meat could reduce the EU’s dependence on conventional meat, contributing to a more resilient food system. The report notes that cultivating meat offers more control over food production processes, which can lead to increased safety and reduced risks associated with livestock diseases. This aspect is particularly relevant as the EU aims to strengthen food security and reduce its environmental footprint.

Asia-Pacific is expected to lead the global cultivated meat industry, driven by high demand and investment from regional governments. However, Europe has the potential to establish itself as a leader through proactive investment and supportive policies. To achieve this, the EU would need to invest around €5 billion annually, according to GFI Europe. This financial commitment would enable European companies to remain competitive globally, catalyze innovation, and facilitate the necessary infrastructure for scaling production.