From Printers to Plates: Israel's Startup Creates a World-First 3D-Printed Fish Fillet

 

Israeli startup, Steakholder Foods, has announced that it has successfully created the world's first 3D-printed fish fillet using animal cells cultivated and grown in a laboratory. Partnering with Singapore-based firm Umami Meats, the startup extracted cells from grouper fish and cultivated them into muscle and fat. The end product was then added to a "bio-ink" suitable for use in special 3D printers.

The grouper fish fillet has a flavor and texture comparable to that of a real fish fillet. Umami Meats CEO Mihir Pershad has stated that in taste tests, the 3D-printed fish was almost indistinguishable from actual fish. The company is set to begin selling the fish in the upcoming months. CEO of Steakholder Foods, Arik Kaufman, has said that this innovative product will "introduce sustainable solutions that increase food security."

Steakholder Foods has emphasized its commitment to animal welfare by utilizing cells from fish and other animals to develop meat inside their natural habitat. The grouper fish is unique in that it does not require incubation and maturation after printing, as other meat products do. This means that the grouper fillet can be consumed as soon as the printing process is complete.

This is not the first time that companies have turned to 3D printing technology for food production. In 2020, Kentucky Fried Chicken announced its partnership with a Russian 3D Bioprinting Solutions lab to produce 3D-printed chicken. While this technology is still in its early stages, it is becoming increasingly clear that it has the potential to transform the food industry and provide innovative solutions to global food security concerns.

With the successful creation of the 3D-printed grouper fillet, Steakholder Foods plans to expand its collaborations to a wider range of species with additional partners. CEO Arik Kaufman has said that the company has created a customized bio-ink that works effectively with Umami's cells and has optimized the taste and texture to meet the high standards of consumers.

Steakholder Foods, in partnership with Singapore-based firm Umami Meats. This achievement marks a significant milestone in the food industry's move towards sustainable and ethical food production. As this technology advances and becomes more widely adopted, it is likely to play a major role in meeting global food security challenges.