Central Idea

Two US-based companies have received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to produce and sell cell-cultivated chicken, a type of lab-grown meat.
This development is seen as a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions associated with the food industry.

Cell-Cultivated Chicken: How is it made?

Cell Isolation: The companies isolate cells from live animals that are likely to taste good and reproduce consistently.
Nutrient-Rich Mixture: The isolated cells are combined with a broth-like mixture containing essential nutrients, such as amino acids, fatty acids, sugars, salts, vitamins, and others required for cell growth.
Cultivation in Bioreactors: The cells are placed in bioreactors or cultivators, creating a controlled environment that supports cell growth.
Rapid Proliferation: Within two to three weeks, the cells multiply and form either large sheets (Upside Foods) or cell aggregates (Good Meat).
Processing and Shaping: The cellular materials are collected, processed, and shaped into various meat products such as cutlets, sausages, or other forms.

Focus on Chicken: Good Meat and Upside Foods initially concentrate on cell-cultivated chicken, given its global consumption demand.
Expansion Plans: These companies aim to extend their offerings to include other meats in the future. Research is underway for cell-cultivated versions of beef, sea bass, tuna, and shrimp.

Climate Mitigation: Cell-cultivated meat has the potential to reduce carbon emissions and land use associated with livestock production, addressing climate change concerns.
Animal Welfare: By eliminating traditional animal farming, it aims to prevent animal cruelty.
Food Security: Advocates view alternative meat as a means to meet nutritional demands worldwide.

Consumer Acceptance: Ensuring that cell-cultivated meat matches the taste, texture, and appearance of traditional meat remains a challenge for widespread adoption.
Cost Factors: The cost of cell-cultivated meat is expected to remain high in the near future, with concerns regarding quality control at scale.
Resource Requirements: High-quality cells, suitable growth mediums, and other resources are necessary for successful cultivation.
Environmental Impact: Studies highlight uncertainties regarding the environmental impact of cell-cultivated meat production, particularly concerning the growth medium used.