Texas has officially implemented a ban on the sale of laboratory-grown meat in stores and restaurants, following its authorization in 2023.
This measure has been positively received by traditional meat and livestock producers in the state.
State Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller expressed that the ban represents a significant win for Texas ranchers, producers, and consumers. He emphasized, “Texans should know what’s on their plates, and for many, it’s preferable that it comes from the pasture, not a lab.”
He further noted that it’s essential to safeguard the genuine meat industry from synthetic substitutes, reflecting a “cowboy logic.”
In June, the Republican-controlled Texas Legislature overwhelmingly voted to prohibit the sale of new meat products derived from live animal cells that are typically used for beef, pork, and chicken.
Those who violate this new regulation by selling “cell culture proteins” could face civil and criminal consequences. This law, which will remain in effect for two years unless extended by lawmakers, adds to existing restrictions under the Texas Foods, Drugs, and Cosmetics Act.
Proponents of laboratory-grown meat argue that it is more environmentally friendly and decreases the necessity of animal slaughter.
On Wednesday, a lawsuit was filed to contest the Texas ban.
Paul Sherman, a lawyer from the Judicial Institute leading the lawsuit, stated, “Texas has always embraced a living mentality, especially in the kitchen. No one should be forced to eat what they don’t want, yet the government shouldn’t stand in the way of Texans choosing their food.”
Prior to the ban, one of Austin’s sushi restaurants had already been offering cultivated meat.
The USDA recognized the ability of companies like beneficial foods and excellent meat to sell lab-grown products in 2023.
In Florida, Governor Ron DeSantis signed legislation to ban these products in 2024, describing this movement as a response to a “global elite plan” to impose a dietary shift toward lab-grown and insect-based foods.
The Florida ban has also faced legal challenges, with involvement from the Judicial Institute.
