In the future, laboratory-grown meat cannot be produced or sold in Italy
Minced meat from the laboratory is available, steaks are not available yet.
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“In vitro burgers” are now available in Singapore and the United States, where “laboratory meat” is approved. Animal rights activists also support this innovative production method, but in Italy the government has decided against it, for surprising reasons.
YoThe right-wing government of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni bans the production and sale of laboratory-grown meat. The Chamber of Deputies in Rome approved on Thursday a corresponding bill that had already been previously approved by the Senate.
Italy is the first country in Europe to introduce such a ban, as reported by the Ansa news agency. Politicians from the Italian government parties were satisfied after the vote in the Chamber of Deputies. “We are concerned about protecting our tradition, our products and, above all, the health of Italians,” said Lega politician Davide Bergamini.
To produce meat in the laboratory, stem cells are taken from live animals and then grown in a nutritious liquid made up of fats, amino acids, vitamins, minerals and sugar. There they can multiply and become muscle tissue.
It would not be necessary to kill animals to obtain meat from the laboratory, which is supported by animal rights activists. Several animal rights groups described Thursday’s decision as an “ideological ban.” The environmental aspect of this production method is also often highlighted.
In fact, laboratory-grown meat has never been on the market in Italy, which is why critics criticize the project as a false debate. The opposition even doubts the constitutionality of the law. A blanket ban could also violate international law and European regulations, which could result in conflict with the EU Commission.
The Coldiretti agricultural association, however, welcomed much of the new law. Above all, the simultaneous ban on using everyday terms for alternative plant-based products, such as plant-based burgers or sausages, is correct.
However, there was criticism from the opposition. In particular, the constitutionality of the law is questioned. A blanket ban could also violate international law and European regulations, which could result in conflict with the EU Commission.
According to the law, violations must be punished with fines of up to 60,000 euros and confiscation of property.