NUTRIENT MEDIA FOR THE PRODUCTION OF SLAUGHTER-FREE MEAT

Smart overview of the Invention

The development of nutrient media formulations and engineered growth factors enhances the production of slaughter-free meat, a sustainable alternative to traditional animal meat. This innovation addresses various challenges associated with cell-based meat, including safety, scalability, and cost efficiency, while also promoting animal welfare and reducing environmental impact.

Challenges in Cell-Based Meat Production

Cell-based meat production is hindered by high costs, primarily due to the expensive cell culture media that can account for approximately 80% of the final product's cost. Current media often rely on animal-derived serum, which introduces variability and potential pathogens, complicating quality control. The lack of industrial-scale availability of such serum further exacerbates these issues, highlighting the need for safer, more efficient alternatives.

Nutrient Medium Composition

A novel edible nutrient medium is proposed, consisting of ingredients approved for food use and minimal or no animal-derived components. The formulation aims to be cost-effective while meeting safety standards set by regulatory bodies like the FDA and USDA. Key features include:

• Low animal-derived serum content (up to 0.01%) or completely free from it.
• Inclusion of engineered growth factors to enhance cell growth.
• A chemically defined composition to ensure consistency and safety.

Growth Factors and Their Role

The nutrient medium incorporates various engineered growth factors, such as FGF-2, PDGF-BB, IGF-1, and VEGF-A, which are essential for promoting cell proliferation and differentiation. These growth factors can be tailored to match the specific needs of the cells being cultured, improving overall meat production efficiency. Additionally, variants of these factors are designed to optimize their effectiveness in a cultured environment.

Conclusion

The proposed nutrient media formulations represent a significant advancement towards the commercialization of slaughter-free meat. By addressing the critical challenges of cost, safety, and scalability in cell-based meat production, these innovations pave the way for a more sustainable and ethical food system. The incorporation of engineered growth factors further enhances the potential for successful large-scale cultivation of meat alternatives.