Can Lab-Grown Meat Be Halal or Kosher? Some reply “Yes.”

The businesses that produce meat from cultured cells advertise their product as an ethical and environmentally responsible substitute for eating protein from murdered chickens, cows, and other farm animals. Additionally, they are arguing that the raised beef can be halal and kosher while also seeking to appeal to adherents of Jewish and Islamic traditions. Muslims and Jews who practice strict observance will not consume food without these religious certifications. Each has its own set of regulations, however there are some overlaps. For instance, the meat must be free of any blood traces and the animals must be butchered in specified ways. There are some items that are off limits, including pig.

SuperMeat, a Tel Aviv-based producer of cultured meat, revealed this month that it had been accredited by Orthodox Union Kosher, also known as OU Kosher, the largest kosher certifying organization in the world. Following the Department of Agriculture’s clearance in June for GOOD Meat and another lab-meat startup UPSIDE Foods to produce cell-cultured poultry products, consumers may soon be able to purchase lab-grown meat. A cell line that has been reproduced from an animal and used to create grown meat is the first step in the process. Because of this, it won’t allay the ethical objections of vegans who abstain from using any animal products. The cells are placed in a stainless steel bioreactor, which supplies the energy and warmth required for growth.

According to GOOD Meat, the cells are submerged in nutrients, including vitamins and amino acids, that are equivalent to what the animal would have been fed.According to Mohammad Hussaini, vice president of global halal affairs for the American Halal Foundation, a significant certifier that examines goods and establishments to determine whether they adhere to halal requirements, more meat-producing businesses have enlisted the help of his organization in recent months.
Despite accreditation, customers can be wary. The CEO and creator of the Connecticut-based halal food company Saffron Road, Adnan Durrani, does not plan to sell farm-raised meats. He stated that they appear overly processed, which he believes would not appeal to his consumers, who have motivations other than religious views. According to Mr. Durrani, “our consumers are very dedicated to natural, organic, and clean products.” “From what I’ve seen, I don’t think they’re all that interested in it.”