Researchers at the University of Queensland have developed a method to reduce the production costs of cultivated meat by using microalgae. The process involves growing microalgae using waste products from meat cell cultivation. These algae consume leftover nutrients and provide oxygen to the meat cells. The harvested algae are then processed to replace expensive growth factors and amino acids required for cell development. This closed-loop system could lower growth media costs by 60 to 90 percent, addressing a primary financial barrier to commercializing cultivated meat. Initial tests indicate that the system produces excess algae, which may offer additional commercial value. The research team is now collaborating with the producer Magic Valley to investigate how this circular model can be integrated into large scale manufacturing facilities to support the broader adoption of animal cell based food products.
Source: Recycling meat waste may help bring cultivated meat to market – News – The University of Queensland
