UPSIDE Foods hosts cultivated meat tasting in Miami ahead of Florida's cultivated meat ban

On 1 July, cultivated meat was officially banned in Florida. Days before this ban took effect, UPSIDE Foods, the cultivated meat company, hosted a 'Freedom of Food' pop-up event on The Annex rooftop in Miami on 27 June. The event celebrated and advocated for food freedom and innovation that can help build a better future. It also marked the first time cultivated meat was available for the public to taste free of charge.

At UPSIDE Foods' 'Freedom of Food' pop-up, guests enjoyed delicious cultivated chicken prepared and served by renowned Miami chef, restaurateur, and TV personality Mika Leon. Chef Mika Leon crafted delicious tostadas featuring UPSIDE cultivated chicken, prepared a la plancha con sazón, garnished with avocado, chipotle crema, beet sprouts, and fresh lime zest. This culinary experience was complemented by drinks from Miami mixologist Gio Gutierrez.

"We believe that cultivated meat is essential for the future of food, and people should have the right to choose what they eat," commented Dr Uma Valeti, CEO & Founder of UPSIDE Foods. "The purpose of this event was to give Floridians a taste of cultivated meat – something the state is unfortunately preventing them from enjoying and benefiting from, both in terms of innovation and economics. Despite Florida's ban, events like this highlight the increasing interest in cultivated meat and its crucial role in shaping a more sustainable future of food."

Cultivated meat, grown directly from animal cells, has the potential to help meet the world's growing demand for meat in a way that's more safe, humane and sustainable than conventional methods. However, on May 1, 2024, Governor DeSantis signed Senate Bill 1084 into law, criminalizing the production and sale of cultivated meat in Florida – a move that disregards food safety experts, limits consumer choice, stifles American innovation, and hampers Florida's ability to participate in this burgeoning industry.

"Having had the opportunity to work with UPSIDE's cultivated chicken, I can attest that their products are delicious," said Chef Mika Leon. "From appearance to aroma and taste, their products provide the same experience you'd expect from chicken. As a chef, I love the idea of preserving the foods we love while using innovation to figure out ways to create a better future of food."

The event attracted a diverse crowd, including Florida residents, families, professionals, food enthusiasts, and curious consumers. Over 100 guests gathered to get a taste of cultivated meat and engage in discussions about the future of food.