Cell-culture technology will generate more headlines than protein for the foreseeable future. It is impossible to ignore the attention that the technology has garnered in the popular press and in the food and agriculture sector. Some farmers and ranchers view it as a mortal threat to their livelihood whereas some proponents tout it as a cure for animal welfare and environmental issues.
Although the products may appeal to consumers who have misgivings over consuming meat, the lab-grown products are not expected to displace a significant share of farm-raised meat and poultry on the marketplace. We are a long way off from seeing products that can mimic the nuanced texture and marbling of a ribeye steak, but we can expect to see cell-cultured burgers and chicken nuggets at high-end grocery stores in a few years.