UK parliamentary research project to explore the future of cultivated meat

In the UK, a new parliamentary research project has been launched to explore the opportunities and challenges surrounding cultivated meat, focusing on its potential contributions to food security, sustainability, and public health. Led by the Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST), the research will evaluate the steps needed to bring cultivated meat to market for human consumption in the UK, building on its recent approval for pet food in July 2024.

Cultivated meat is produced by growing animal cells in controlled environments, such as fermenters, where they multiply in a nutrient-rich solution. This innovative process aims to replicate the taste and texture of conventional meat without the need for livestock farming. While cultivated meat is already approved for human consumption in Singapore, the USA, and Israel, the UK’s journey toward approving it for people is just beginning.

The UK boasts a growing ecosystem of companies driving innovation in the cultivated meat sector. Hoxton Farms, for example, focuses on creating cultivated animal fat, a critical component for enhancing the taste and texture of alternative protein products. Ivy Farm Technologies is pioneering cultivated pork products, aiming to develop sustainable alternatives for global markets. Multus Biotechnology plays a vital role in the value chain by producing cost-effective and animal-free growth media, a major expense in cultivated meat production. Meanwhile, Extracellular specializes in biomanufacturing platforms to help scale cultivated meat production efficiently. Together, these companies are positioning the UK as a key player in the global cultivated meat landscape, contributing to technological advancements and fostering a vibrant ecosystem.

The research project will examine key considerations, such as the environmental benefits of cultivated meat, including its potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, water use, and deforestation. Economic challenges, such as the high production costs and the need for scalable manufacturing processes, will also be addressed. Additionally, the project will explore nutritional implications, regulatory pathways, and public perception, which remains a critical factor in the adoption of this emerging technology. Stakeholder perspectives will be sought to ensure a comprehensive analysis of the sector’s potential.

Advocates of cultivated meat highlight its promise as a sustainable and protein-rich alternative to conventional meat, offering solutions to global food security challenges as the world grapples with climate change and a growing population. However, significant hurdles remain, including cost, regulatory complexities, and consumer acceptance.

POST is inviting contributions from researchers, industry experts, and stakeholders to inform this research. Submissions must follow POST’s guidelines and be submitted by 21 February 2025. The findings will be published in May 2025, providing policymakers with critical insights into the cultivated meat sector and its potential to transform the UK’s food system.

For further information or to contribute, visit POST’s website and review the guidance for contributors.