Statement About Florida’s Ban on Cultivated Meat

Today, we are disappointed that Governor Ron DeSantis has signed into law the criminalization of cultivated meat in Florida. In a state that purportedly prides itself on being a land of freedom and individual liberty, its government is now telling consumers what meat they can or cannot purchase.

This bill sends a terrible message to the investors, scientists, and entrepreneurs that have built America’s global leadership in alternative proteins.

The legislature presented no credible safety concerns, and its regulatory bodies asked us for no clarifying information. This stands in contrast to the 3+ years we engaged with the USDA and FDA to ensure our product is safe for consumers. That process led to our approval for commercial sale in the United States last summer.

This legislation has always been about one thing – helping one industry, “Big Ag”, avoid accountability and competition. Today, these multinational corporations and their lobbyists won. China will also be celebrating, as they are closer to overcoming our nation’s lead in this emerging sector.

The law is a setback for everyone else: Floridians who deserve the right to eat whatever safe and approved meat they want; Florida’s technology sector, innovators and entrepreneurs; and all those working to stop the worst impacts of climate change.

The law will not stop the development of cultivated meat. And GOOD Meat remains committed to its mission: making real meat without needing to tear down a rainforest or take a life.