NEW TECH FOODS

Cultivated meat producer Mosa Meat has submitted its first application for market authorisation in the UK, marking a significant step in the commercialisation of cell-cultivated food products. The application focuses on the use of cultivated fat, which aims to enhance the flavour profile of various beef-based foods, including hamburgers and meatballs.

This submission follows Mosa Meat's recent participation in the Food Standards Agency's (FSA) regulatory 'sandbox' programme, designed to facilitate innovation within the food sector. According to Maarten Bosch, CEO of Mosa Meat, the company benefited from pre-submission consultations with the FSA, which provided valuable feedback that was incorporated into their application.

Mosa Meat's cultivated fat is positioned as a key ingredient that can be blended with plant-based components to replicate the sensory experience of traditional beef. Bosch highlighted the importance of fat in flavour development, stating that "fat is the soul of flavour," and suggesting that this innovation could elevate both cultivated and plant-based products in a competitive market.

The request for market authorisation comes at a time when the global food system is under pressure to adapt to increasing demand while addressing sustainability concerns. Cultivated meat production presents an opportunity to reduce reliance on conventional meat sources, potentially enhancing food security and resilience in the supply chain.

Independent studies indicate that cultivated beef production could generate up to 93% fewer greenhouse gas emissions, utilise 95% less land and consume 78% less water compared to traditional meat production methods. This aligns with broader industry trends aimed at minimising environmental impact and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Furthermore, the sterile environment of cultivated meat production significantly reduces the risks associated with pathogens and foodborne illnesses common in traditional animal farming, while also decreasing the need for antibiotics.

Mosa Meat has demonstrated considerable momentum in recent months, having submitted its first cultivated beef application to the EU and Switzerland, while also surpassing its crowdfunding target within minutes earlier this year. This recent application in the UK highlights the company’s commitment to adhering to rigorous safety standards and regulatory compliance.

The introduction of cultivated meat products could reshape the landscape of the F&B industry, particularly in Europe and the UK, where there is a growing appetite for innovation in food technology. As Mosa Meat prepares for potential market entry, its focus on combining cultivated and plant-based ingredients may appeal to a diverse consumer base seeking sustainable and ethical food options.