Lab-grown meat: Why are countries banning it? - The Global Story podcast, BBC World Service

Summary

In this episode of The Global Story, Lucy Hockings explores the concept of lab-grown meat, a potential solution to the environmental impact of livestock farming. With the UN estimating livestock emissions contribute over 14% of man-made greenhouse gases, lab-grown meat is seen by some as a climate-friendly alternative. Singapore and the US have approved it for consumption, while places like Italy and US states are banning it. The discussion includes perspectives on taste, ethics, and the future of food production, featuring insights from BBC's Graihagh Jackson and Asia Business reporter Nick Marsh, who has tried lab-grown meat.

Takeaways

• 🌐 The UN estimates that livestock emissions contribute over 14% of all man-made greenhouse gases.
• 🥩 Lab-grown or cultivated meat is promoted as a climate-friendly alternative to traditional meat production.
• 🇺🇸 The US and Singapore are the first countries to approve lab-grown meat for human consumption.
• 🚫 Italy, Alabama, and Florida have banned lab-grown meat despite it not being available for purchase.
• 🗣️ Public opinion on lab-grown meat varies, with some being open to trying it and others expressing skepticism.
• 🔍 Lab-grown meat is produced by taking a small biopsy from an animal and growing cells in a nutrient-rich growth medium.
• 🍗 Nick Marsh, a reporter in Singapore, tried lab-grown chicken nuggets and found them to be similar in taste and texture to regular chicken.
• 🌱 Singapore's interest in lab-grown meat is driven by concerns over food security and the desire for self-sufficiency.
• 💸 The cost of producing lab-grown meat is currently high, which limits its widespread availability and adoption.
• 🌍 Opposition to lab-grown meat in some regions is tied to protecting traditional farming and cultural practices.
• 🔮 The future of lab-grown meat remains uncertain, with potential for both niche markets and broader cultural acceptance.

Q & A

What is the main topic of discussion in the script?

The main topic of discussion in the script is lab-grown or cultivated meat, its potential environmental benefits, and the various global responses to its approval and consumption.

What is the United Nations' estimate regarding livestock emissions?

The United Nations estimates that emissions from livestock make up more than 14% of all man-made greenhouse gases.

Which countries have approved lab-grown meat for human consumption?

The United States and Singapore have approved lab-grown meat for human consumption.

Why have some places like Italy, Alabama, and Florida decided to ban lab-grown meat?

Places like Italy, Alabama, and Florida have decided to ban lab-grown meat due to concerns about safety, tradition, and protecting their agricultural and cultural heritage.

What is the process of creating lab-grown meat?

Lab-grown meat is created by taking a small biopsy from an animal, placing it in a growth medium with nutrients to encourage cell growth, and maintaining it at body temperature to grow the cells into meat.

What was Nick Marsh's experience like when he tried lab-grown meat?

Nick Marsh found the lab-grown meat he tried to taste and feel like conventional chicken nuggets, and he would have had no idea it was lab-grown if he hadn't known beforehand.

Why is Singapore interested in lab-grown meat?

Singapore is interested in lab-grown meat due to its focus on food security and innovation. The country imports 90% of its food, and lab-grown meat is seen as a step towards increasing self-sufficiency.

What are some of the environmental concerns related to traditional meat production?

Environmental concerns related to traditional meat production include methane emissions from livestock, deforestation for grazing and growing feed crops, and nitrogen oxide emissions from fertilizers.

What are some of the arguments against lab-grown meat in terms of environmental impact?

Some arguments against lab-grown meat's environmental impact include the high energy intensity required for production and the uncertainty around its actual emissions compared to traditional meat.

What is the current state of lab-grown meat production and availability?

Lab-grown meat production is still in its early stages, with limited availability and high costs. It is not yet widely available for consumers, and the industry is struggling to scale up production to reduce costs.

How do different generations perceive lab-grown meat, and what does this mean for its future?

Different generations may perceive lab-grown meat differently, with younger generations potentially being more open to it. This could lead to a shift in cultural acceptance and a more mainstream adoption of lab-grown meat in the future.