China launches US$11M cultivated meat center
CHINA – China has inaugurated its first facility dedicated to cultivated meat and fermentation-based proteins in the Fengtai District of Beijing.
The New Protein Food Science and Technology Innovation Base, backed by an investment of US$10.9 million, is a joint venture between the local government and Shounong Food Group.
This initiative aims to bridge the gap in China’s emerging cultivated meat and microbial protein sector through collaborative efforts from academia, research, and industry.
The centre houses a 200-litre cell line for cultivated meat production and a 2,000-litre microbial protein line, with plans to expand further.
Shounong Food Group and Fengtai District officials have designed the project to convert laboratory innovations into practical, industrial applications.
The innovation hub seeks to advance research in synthetic biology and cell engineering to push forward breakthroughs in alternative protein technology.
At the grand opening, prototypes of microbial protein bars, fermented tofu meat, and cultivated marbled steak were displayed as examples of potential products.
Fengtai District is becoming a significant player in the biomanufacturing sector, with policies aimed at accelerating the development of the future food industry.
This centre will function as a national-level innovation platform to support the growth of China’s bioeconomy and food security efforts.
In response to growing demand for alternative protein, China’s meat consumption, which drives 28% of global growth, is expected to shift towards more sustainable sources by 2060.
Experts predict that to meet its decarbonization goals, half of China’s protein consumption must come from alternatives within the next few decades.
The district’s recent policy efforts have led to the establishment of a new industrial park focused on the future of food, attracting research institutions and businesses.
Survey data suggests that 98% of Chinese consumers are open to increasing their intake of plant-based foods if they understand the benefits.
Companies like CellX, Joes Future Food, and Jimi Biotech are already at the forefront of cultivated meat development in China.
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