Scientists Produce Lab-Grown Chicken Nuggets
The University of Tokyo has made a significant breakthrough in the field of cellular agriculture, successfully creating lab-grown chicken nuggets. This novel approach contrasts sharply with traditional poultry processing methods.
The process begins with a small sample of chicken cells, often taken from a feather, which are then fed a nutrient-rich liquid medium in bioreactors designed to replicate natural bodily conditions. These cell culture techniques are common in cellular agriculture, providing the necessary environment for the cells to grow and differentiate into muscle tissue.
To promote structured muscle tissue growth suitable for making chicken nuggets, the researchers at the University of Tokyo have employed the use of artificial blood vessels within the cultured tissue. These vessels facilitate the efficient delivery of nutrients and oxygen, a critical factor in the development of thicker, more structured pieces of lab-grown chicken meat.
The cells are then grown to the desired size and texture for chicken nuggets. Once ready, the cultured tissue is harvested and processed into nugget shapes, potentially using automated portioning technologies similar to those used in traditional poultry processing.
This innovative approach offers a sustainable, ethical alternative to traditional poultry processing. By producing meat directly from cell cultures with controlled environments and innovative nutrient delivery systems, the University of Tokyo's method minimises the environmental impact associated with conventional farming methods.
The lab-grown chicken nuggets are currently a novelty, similar to science fiction, and not yet widely available. However, this groundbreaking research marks a significant step towards a more sustainable and ethical food future.
References:
- University of Tokyo
- Cellular Agriculture
- Nature Food
- The Guardian
- New Atlas
- Food Navigator Asia
The University of Tokyo's cellular agriculture breakthrough, using nutrient-rich liquid medium and bioreactors, promotes the growth of lab-grown chicken meat, replicating natural conditions. For optimal muscle tissue growth, they employ artificial blood vessels, enhancing nutrient and oxygen delivery. This health-and-wellness and fitness-and-exercise innovation of producing chicken nuggets from cell cultures presents a sustainable and ethical alternative to traditional science.
