Lab-Grown Meat Market Set for Explosive Growth with NUProtein & Hitachi Zosen's Breakthrough
The lab-grown meat market is poised for significant growth, with McKinsey & Co. predicting it to reach USD 25 billion by 2030. This expansion is driven by innovative technologies like that of Japanese startup NUProtein and its partner, Hitachi Zosen.
NUProtein's unique method involves combining mRNA from animal DNA with wheat germ to produce protein. Hitachi Zosen, leveraging its expertise in precise component measurement, has mechanized this solution-making process. The result is a synthetic protein that could bring the cost of lab-grown meat production to the lower double digits per patty, a significant reduction from current prices.
The environmental and food security benefits of artificial meat are well-recognized. By eliminating the need for livestock, it reduces greenhouse gas emissions and eases pressure on resources. Hitachi Zosen plans to start selling its synthetic protein to artificial meat producers by 2025, with initial sales in Singapore. Expansion to the US and Japan is planned for later.
The collaboration between NUProtein and Hitachi Zosen is set to revolutionize the lab-grown meat industry. With a 90% reduction in production costs, this technology brings us closer to affordable, sustainable, and secure food sources.
