Setting the table for meat consumers: an international Delphi study on in vitro meat

Area of Science:

• Food Science
• Sustainable Agriculture
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Growing global meat demand strains agricultural resources and hinders climate change mitigation.
• Conventional meat production faces challenges related to environmental impact (methane emissions) and public health concerns.
• Cultured meat presents a potential solution to these multifaceted issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the projected development and market viability of cultured meat by the year 2027.
• To assess expert opinions on the feasibility of overcoming key challenges in cultured meat production and adoption.
• To understand the timeline for cultured meat to become marketable, competitive, and widely accepted.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Delphi method, a structured communication technique involving expert consensus.
• Engaged a panel of participants to forecast the future development of cultured meat.
• Collected and analyzed expert predictions regarding technological, economic, and social factors.

Main Results:

• Participants expressed skepticism about overcoming significant hurdles in mass production and reducing production costs by 2027.
• Consumer acceptance remains a major concern, with doubts about its widespread adoption within the projected timeframe.
• Despite challenges, the urgency for sustainable meat alternatives is acknowledged, driven by global warming impacts.

Conclusions:

• Significant advancements in research and development are crucial for cultured meat to achieve its potential.
• A shift in consumer perceptions and attitudes towards cultured meat is essential for market success.
• While promising, the widespread market integration of cultured meat by 2027 appears unlikely given current obstacles.