Vow has become the first cell-based meat player in Australia to begin the regulatory approval process with Food Standards ANZ, in the hopes of having lab-grown quail on diners’ plates in 2024.
The company, which in November raised $US49.2 million ($73.1 million) from Blackbird Ventures and Prosperity7 Ventures, has no intention of competing with Aussie farmers, instead developing cell-based meats that are healthier and tastier utilising cells from animals such as rabbits, kangaroo, alpaca, goat and water buffalo.
The business is one of a growing number of cell-based and alternative meat start-ups in Australia. Another start-up, Magic Valley, is developing cell-based meat products, while Canberra-based Nourish Ingredients is developing synthetic fats and oils to replicate the taste, texture and smell of meat, to be used in plant-based alternatives.
Vow co-founder George Peppou said the company had been given a precise approval timeline by the regulator, and all going to plan the start-up will find out if it has the support of Food Standards ANZ by May next year.
The process of approval for a novel food process is a lengthy one, he said, involving an in-depth review by the regulator and public consultation. After this, the regulator will make recommendations on the safety of the product and if it should be added to the food standards code. Ultimately, that decision will be made a panel of ministers from each state and territory.
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