The popularity of cultivated meat or lab-grown meat has been steadily increasing in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region in recent years. Meat is considered an essential source of proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and vitamins that the body needs to meet its energy requirements. However, traditional animal farming techniques are insufficient to meet the growing demand for meat. As a result, cultured meat, also known as cultivated meat, has become a powerful protein substitute that meets the increased demand for protein. Consequently, there has been a rise in interest in cultured meat in the APAC region, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

Bynagari Susmitha, Consumer Analyst at Global Data, comments: “APAC nations are exploring opportunities to produce cultured meat driven by technological advancements and growing consumer awareness of sustainable practices. Additionally, there is a clear shift in consumer preferences towards alternative protein sources, leading to greater acceptance and adoption of cultured meat products.

“Singapore is at the forefront of this cultural shift as its people have shown a remarkable ability to adapt to novel foods such as cultured meats. The country is leading this cultural transformation as it sees an opportunity to become a global leader by assisting both domestic and foreign businesses.”

Susmitha adds: “The traditional method of raising livestock presents serious problems by causing negative environmental effects like rising greenhouse gas emissions, water scarcity, and overuse of land resources. It is believed that about three-quarters of agricultural land is used for animal husbandry, leaving very little space available for grain cultivation. Furthermore, meat production is responsible for a significant amount of greenhouse gas emissions from the food industry. Cultivated meat, also known as lab-grown meat, is sustainable as it has less environmental impact.

“Emphasizing this trend, 81% of the Asia & Australasia respondents in GlobalData’s recent consumer survey stated that the sustainable/environmentally friendly feature is essential/nice to have when deciding to make a food and drink purchase*.

Susmitha concludes: “As the world fights the urgent need to address climate change, cultured meat or lab-grown meat minimizes greenhouse gas emissions associated with conventional meat production, promotes ethical animal care, and also meets the growing need for food that is high in protein. Investments and legislative backing for cultured meat technologies are expected to rise as countries in the APAC region strive to achieve their food security and sustainability objectives. This will foster a competitive market environment and drive scientific breakthroughs in the region.”

*GlobalData 2024 Q3 Consumer Survey – Asia & Australasia, with 6,163 respondents, published in October 2024