Conceptual evolution and scientific approaches about synthetic meat

Area of Science:

• Food Science
• Biotechnology
• Agricultural Science

Background:

• Cellular agriculture offers a novel approach to animal protein production in laboratory settings.
• Despite its potential, synthetic meat technology faces significant speculation and ambiguity.
• Understanding the scientific context of cellular agriculture is crucial for its advancement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the scientific consideration of synthetic meat within cellular agriculture.
• To map the trajectory and diverse approaches of synthetic meat research.
• To provide a comprehensive overview of the field's evolution and current status.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of 109 manuscripts.
• Network analysis of co-citation and predominance.
• Categorization of research into environmental/health, technical/economic, and social/market approaches.

Main Results:

• A historical overview of synthetic meat's conceptual evolution was constructed.
• Research was categorized into three main approaches: environmental/health, technical/economic feasibility, and social/market aspects.
• The study clarifies the technological and economic development stage of synthetic meat.

Conclusions:

• This research enhances the understanding of synthetic meat's development and commercialization potential.
• Insights gained can inform conventional meat industries about cellular agriculture.
• Further understanding is vital for the feasible commercial production of synthetic meat.