Brazil is making significant strides in the development of lab-grown meat through advanced 3D printing technology. The CELLMEAT 3D project at SENAI CIMATEC in Salvador is pioneering this initiative, which involves biopsying animal cells, cultivating them in laboratories, and utilizing 3D printing techniques to create meat products. This groundbreaking approach has garnered recognition with the 2025 Finep Northeast Innovation Award, highlighting its potential to offer sustainable alternatives to traditional meat production.
The core of the CELLMEAT 3D technology is based on cell biopsy, which allows for the harvesting of animal cells without causing harm to the animals. Once collected, these cells are placed in bioreactors where they proliferate and differentiate into muscle and fat tissues. Using bio-inks, the 3D bioprinting process layers these tissues to replicate the complexity of natural meat. After printing, the products undergo maturation, enhancing their taste and texture. This innovative method also allows for nutritional adjustments, such as reducing saturated fats or incorporating essential vitamins. It is estimated that this technology could reduce resource consumption by up to 90 percent compared to traditional meat production methods.
Brazil’s commitment to advancing cultivated meat technology is evident through targeted funding initiatives. The Araucária Foundation in Paraná has invested approximately £0.8 million (around $1.0 million or R$5.7 million) to establish laboratories and train researchers in cellular agriculture. The initiative focuses on utilizing local cattle breeds, such as Purunã, for cell lines, thereby integrating these alternatives into traditional farming practices.
Carla Molento, a researcher at UFPR, emphasized the importance of this government-backed initiative in a livestock-raising state. She stated, “It is extremely important to emphasize that the government of a livestock-raising state is treating cellular zootechnics and the production of cultivated meat as part of agriculture and as an essential part of strengthening livestock farming.” Molento also noted the initiative’s goal of alleviating professionals’ apprehensions about entering this innovative field through comprehensive training.
Collaboration with industry leaders is also a key component of this development. Companies like BRF are partnering with Aleph Farms to co-develop products tailored for local markets. Federal support includes a £0.3 million (approximately $0.4 million) investment from Embrapa to foster hybrid innovations in lab-grown meat.
Despite the promise of this technology, challenges remain. High production costs, primarily driven by pharmaceutical inputs, continue to pose an obstacle. Ongoing efforts are focused on finding more affordable options as the regulatory landscape evolves. The Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency, known as Anvisa, is expected to provide clarity regarding the regulations surrounding lab-grown meat following its 2024 resolution.
Consumer acceptance of lab-grown meat will require educational initiatives to highlight the ethical and sustainable benefits of these products. Currently, Brazil’s cultivated meat market is projected to reach around £3.9 million (approximately $5.14 million) by 2025, indicating that while research and investment are robust, widespread commercial sales are still on the horizon.
International collaborations are being formed to navigate the complexities of this emerging sector. The rise of 3D-printed meat in Brazil signifies a pivotal evolution in food production practices. Ongoing research and funding suggest that cultivated meat may complement existing agricultural methods, providing eco-friendly alternatives to consumers.
State-owned Embrapa has also made notable advancements in cultivated meat, developing prototypes for lab-grown chicken, including structured breast fillets derived from domestic cell lines. Additionally, a cellular biobank is being established to ensure stable cell lines are available for industry startups. In partnership with the Good Food Institute Brazil and Unicamp, a comprehensive HACCP safety plan for cultivated products, including burgers, has been created to aid in regulatory evaluations by Anvisa and the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Supply (Mapa).
Overall, Brazil’s innovative approach to lab-grown meat through 3D printing technology reflects a commitment to sustainable food production, addressing global protein needs while minimizing environmental impact. As developments continue, the potential for reduced reliance on conventional meat production methods appears increasingly viable.
