The cultivated meat sector faces considerable hurdles, primarily due to complex and slow regulatory processes, particularly within the UK and EU. Stringent standards and unpredictable approval timelines deter investors, causing funding issues for start-ups. While strict regulation can build consumer trust, the lack of regulatory clarity and speed impedes industry development. The UK has established a regulatory sandbox for cultivated meat, fostering confidence and learning, with product approval anticipated soon. Conversely, the EU has ruled out regulatory sandboxes for novel foods, which has been a setback. European authorities acknowledge the need to streamline regulations to retain innovation and are working to improve the application process, including expanding pre-submission advice from the European Food Safety Authority.
Source: How regulation is impacting alternative proteins