The cultivated meat industry has experienced a plateau in patent filings after rapid growth from 2019-2021, likely due to economic challenges and a shift towards scaling up production. The US remains the leader in new filings, with Europe second and the UK showing significant growth. Regulatory approvals have been granted in Israel, Singapore, and the UK (for pet food), while some regions have banned or oppose cultivated meat products. Investment has declined sharply, with five major companies dominating funding. Consumer acceptance, regulatory approval, and cost-effective production remain key obstacles. Despite challenges, companies continue to innovate in scaling methods and product development. The UK’s favorable regulatory environment post-Brexit has made it an attractive location for cultivated meat production, with several new start-ups emerging. The industry faces ongoing debates about environmental benefits, animal welfare, and potential impacts on traditional farming.
Source: Cultivated meat – Inside Green Innovation: Progress Report – Fourth Edition