Addressing current ecological impediments in Pakistan through lab-grown meat

Area of Science:

• Food Science
• Environmental Science
• Consumer Behavior

Background:

• Pakistan's growing population strains food security and the environment.
• Lab-grown meat offers a sustainable alternative with significant resource reduction potential.
• Ethical and health benefits are also associated with lab-grown meat.

Purpose of the Study:

• To empirically assess consumer acceptance and awareness of lab-grown meat in Pakistan.
• To investigate the influence of awareness, perceived benefits, concerns, and demographics on acceptance.
• To identify factors driving adoption for a sustainable food future.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional online survey conducted among 102 university personnel and students.
• Data analysis performed using R statistical software.
• Focus on empirical evidence for Pakistani consumer perceptions.

Main Results:

• Acceptability of lab-grown meat is significantly influenced by eco-activism.
• Food preferences and gender were identified as key factors affecting acceptance levels.
• First empirical data on Pakistani consumer perceptions of this novel food technology.

Conclusions:

• Findings offer crucial insights into the knowledge gap and adoption drivers for lab-grown meat in Pakistan.
• Informs researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders on promoting sustainable food systems.
• Highlights the importance of socio-demographic and psychological factors in consumer acceptance.