The Rise of Lab-Grown Meat: Exploring Safety, Production, and Kosher Options
Upside Foods and Eat Just have received full approvals from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to sell their lab-grown chicken products, following confirmation from the Food and Drug Administration that their cell-cultivated meat is safe for human consumption. While the initial impact on the meat industry may be small, lab-grown meat could potentially compete with plant-based alternatives in the long term. The taste and nutrition of lab-grown meat are said to be similar to traditional meat, and it will be labeled as "cell-cultivated" in stores. While lab-grown meat may appeal to those concerned about animal welfare, it is unlikely to be embraced by vegetarians and vegans who avoid consuming animal products altogether. The potential for lab-grown meat to address world hunger or environmental issues is uncertain, as it is currently geared towards an upscale niche market and the energy and emissions associated with its production are still being evaluated.