Texas lawmakers have filed a bill that would outlaw the manufacture, possession and sale of cell-cultured protein, an alternative to animal meat.
[USA] Texas bill that would outlaw lab-grown meat passes Senate committee, heads to Senate vote (2025-05-06)
- Registration Date 2025-05-07
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Senate Bill 261, authored by Sen. Charles Perry, R-Lubbock, has advanced out of committee and will head to the full Senate. It would still need approval of the House and the signature of Gov. Greg Abbott.
Here's what you need to know about cultured meat products.
What are cultured proteins?
Cell-cultured meats, or lab-grown meats, are a food product made from cultured animal cells, according to SB 261. The cells can be taken from livestock, poultry, seafood or other animals, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
The process starts with a sample of animal tissue cells placed in a tightly controlled and monitored environment, according to the FDA. They are supplied with the appropriate nutrients and other factors that promote growth and multiplication. Once they have grown to \billions or trillions of cells, more nutrients and growth factors are added so the cells can grow into a specific type tissue , according to the FDA. The cells then undertake characteristics of muscle, fat or connective tissue cells and can be harvested and prepared with conventional food processing methods, according to the FDA.
The practice of developing cell-cultured meats is a growing area of food science, according to the FDA, which said it's working with firms that develop food made from cultured animal cells to ensure it is done in a safe and lawful way. The FDA jointly regulates the process alongside the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service.
Is cell-cultured meat safe to eat?
Cell-cultured meat is considered safe to eat if it is bought from a manufacturer that complies with requirements and regulations set by the FDA.
"The FDA’s approach to regulating products derived from cultured animal cells involves a thorough pre-market consultation process and inspections of records and facilities as applicable," the FDA website reads.
Both Upside Food and Good Meat companies are authorized by the FDA to sell cell-cultured protein, according to the FDA and the companies.
Which states have banned cultured meat?
States that have banned cell-cultured meats include Florida, Alabama and Mississippi.
Some proponents of cell-cultured meat argue the ban is unconstitutional and that it is an environmentally friendlier alternative that does not require slaughtering animals, the New York Times reported.
Others argue that cell-cultured meats are a threat to farmers and ranchers, who make money selling animal meat.
What is the status of SB 261?
The state Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture and Rural Affairs approved SB 261 last month. It now moves to the Senate, whose approval would send it on to to a House committee.
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