Building an ecosystem for cultivated meat in India
Written in collaboration with CIIE.Co, this report lays out the global state of the alternative protein industry, emphasising the economic, sustainability, and public health benefits of the sector. It also highlights the value Indian science, business, and investment can offer with the vision to position India as a strong bio-manufacturing hub for innovative, affordable, and accessible products for domestic and global markets.
Overview
A comprehensive analysis of the cultivated meat industry in India shows that there is immense potential for growth and innovation in the smart protein sector. Creating a supportive ecosystem for biomanufacturing and alternative protein production will be the key to addressing global challenges related to food security, sustainability, and public health. Looking at the current landscape of cultivated meat startups and academic research groups in India, there is an urgent need for collaboration and strategic partnerships to drive advancements in sustainable protein production. Through stakeholder analysis and a proposed maturity model, a clear roadmap for building a robust ecosystem that fosters entrepreneurship, scientific advancements, and industry engagement in the cultivated meat sector can be charted. Leveraging India’s established biopharmaceutical industry, agricultural biodiversity, and robust talent pool can significantly contribute to a secure and sustainable food system for all.
Key insights from the report
- India has the potential to be a global leader in cultivated meat production, thanks to its robust manufacturing sector and supportive government policies.
- Fostering open-access research, establishing clear regulatory frameworks, and encouraging public-private partnerships are crucial for building a thriving cultivated meat ecosystem in India.
- Cost reduction remains a crucial hurdle, and India needs to utilise indigenous feedstocks and optimise bioprocesses to make cultivated meat affordable and accessible to the masses.
- Consumer acceptance will be crucial for widespread adoption. Highlighting the ethical, environmental, and health benefits of cultivated meat will build trust and encourage consumers to embrace this revolutionary protein source.