FSA launches safety assessment for cell-based meat amid consumer skepticism

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has embarked on an initiative to assess the safety of lab-grown meat, commonly referred to as cell-based meat. In 2024, alongside the Food Standards Scotland (FSS), FSA received £1.6 million to support a two-year program which will involve collaboration between scientists, regulatory experts, academic institutions, and industry stakeholders. The goal is to collect scientific data regarding the production and safety of these innovative food products, which are produced without traditional farming methods.  

Cell-based meat is created by cultivating cells from animals (or plants) in controlled environments, eliminating the need for slaughter. While terms like “cell-based,” “cultivated,” and “cultured” are preferred, other descriptors such as “lab-grown” and “artificial” are also used, reflecting the diverse perceptions surrounding these products.  

The program features participation from various businesses, including UK-based Hoxton Farms, Roslin Technologies, and Uncommon Bio, alongside international companies like BlueNalu from the U.S. and Mosa Meat from the Netherlands. Academic partners include the Cellular Agriculture Manufacturing Hub at the University of Bath, the National Alternative Protein Innovation Centre, and the Bezos Centre for Sustainable Protein. The Alternative Proteins Association and The Good Food Institute Europe are also involved.  

Professor Robin May, the chief scientific advisor for the FSA, emphasized the importance of prioritizing consumer safety. “By ensuring that new foods, like cell-based products, meet high safety standards, we can foster growth in innovative sectors and provide consumers with a wider variety of choices,” he stated.  

Despite the potential benefits, consumer skepticism looms large. An evidence review published by the FSA revealed that only 16% to 41% of UK consumers are willing to try cell-based meat. This level of acceptance is notably lower than in the United States, and it has remained relatively unchanged since 2022. Concerns about safety, the impact on traditional farming, and the perceived unnaturalness of these products contribute to widespread hesitation.  

Furthermore, many consumers are unwilling to pay a premium for cell-based meat compared to conventional options. A significant number either believe that these products should not be sold in the UK or remain uncertain about their future availability.  

As the FSA moves forward with its assessment, the focus will be on addressing consumer concerns through effective regulation and transparent labeling. Stakeholders hope that by fostering understanding and trust, the acceptance of cell-based meat can increase, paving the way for a safer and more sustainable food future.    

Sources:  

FSA

FSA