Meatable secures strategic investment from Betagro Ventures to expand cultivated meat in Asia

Meatable, a leading cultivated meat technology company, has received a strategic investment from Betagro Ventures, the corporate venture arm of Thailand’s Betagro Group. This partnership is a significant milestone for both companies, with Betagro becoming the first traditional meat producer in Asia to invest in Meatable’s sustainable protein solutions.

The collaboration marks a major step forward in Meatable’s mission to produce high-quality, sustainable meat without harming animals. The company uses its proprietary opti-ox technology, which enables the production of real meat from animal cells without the need for slaughter or intensive farming. Recognized by TIME as one of the best inventions of 2024, this innovative approach substantially reduces environmental impact while delivering products that mirror the taste, texture, and nutritional profile of conventional meat.

Asia represents a critical market for Meatable as the region experiences rising demand for protein and increasing pressure on food systems to adopt sustainable practices. Thailand, in particular, has seen growing consumer interest in alternative proteins, making Betagro an ideal partner for Meatable’s expansion in the region.

“We are delighted to welcome Betagro as our first investor from the traditional meat industry,” commented Jeff Tripician, CEO of Meatable. “This investment is not just a testament to the potential of our cultivated meat technology, but also a strong indication that established food leaders like Betagro are willing to champion innovation for a sustainable future.”

Tripician emphasized that Betagro’s deep understanding of the Asian market and extensive distribution network will be instrumental in Meatable’s efforts to bring cultivated meat to consumers across the continent.

“Together, we will accelerate the availability of cultivated meat in Asia and meet the surging demand for sustainable protein options,” he added.

For Betagro, the investment aligns with its long-term goals of supporting innovation and advancing sustainability in the food industry.

“Betagro Ventures’ investment into Meatable represents our Group’s commitment to innovation and driving sustainable change across the food industry,” said Chayadhorn Taepaisitphongse, Managing Director of Betagro Ventures. “We firmly believe in the underlying technology and vision of Meatable, and look forward to partnering with the company to bring cultivated meats to consumers across Southeast Asia.”

The partnership also opens doors for potential co-development projects, with both companies leveraging their expertise to drive innovation.

Meatable’s opti-ox technology sets it apart in the cultivated meat industry. By using a proprietary stem cell platform, the company can produce meat quickly and efficiently, addressing key challenges of scale and cost that have traditionally hindered the sector. This technology allows Meatable to produce high-quality pork and beef that are indistinguishable from traditional meat, ensuring a seamless transition for consumers.

Additionally, the environmental benefits of cultivated meat are significant. Compared to conventional animal farming, cultivated meat requires substantially less land, water, and energy, and produces far fewer greenhouse gas emissions. This aligns with Betagro’s sustainability goals and provides a compelling solution to the environmental challenges associated with meat production.

With Betagro’s investment, Meatable is well-positioned to scale its operations and expand its market reach. The partnership includes opportunities for market entry not only in Thailand but also across Southeast Asia, where cultivated meat has the potential to play a major role in addressing food security and sustainability.

Betagro’s established distribution network and local market expertise will help Meatable navigate the complexities of the region, including regulatory frameworks and consumer preferences.

“Betagro’s investment goes beyond funding—it’s a strategic partnership that enables us to effectively bring our products to market,” said Tripician. “Their support will help us deliver on our promise of sustainable, high-quality meat for consumers around the world.”

The partnership also signals a broader shift within the food industry, as traditional meat producers increasingly embrace alternative protein technologies. Betagro’s decision to invest in Meatable reflects a growing recognition of the need for innovation to meet the challenges of feeding a growing global population sustainably.

As Meatable prepares for its next phase of growth, the company remains focused on scaling its production capabilities and continuing to refine its technology. With the support of Betagro Ventures, Meatable is set to bring cultivated meat to consumers in Asia and beyond, paving the way for a more sustainable and ethical future for food production.

“We’re thrilled to have Betagro’s backing as we work to transform the food industry,” Tripician said. “This partnership is a clear indication that cultivated meat is no longer a niche idea—it’s a viable solution to the challenges of feeding a growing population sustainably.”