The ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), headquartered in Kochi, India, has entered into a collaborative research agreement with Neat Meatt Biotech, a private-sector start-up specializing in cultivated meat technology solutions. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) represents a pioneering initiative in the country.
Lab-Grown Fish Meat Technology
Cultivated fish meat is produced through the isolation of specific cells from fish, grown in a laboratory setting using animal-free media. This technology aims to create seafood without the need to raise and kill animals, replicating the flavor, texture, and nutritional qualities of real fish meat.
Objectives of the MoU
According to the MoU, CMFRI will focus on genetic, biochemical, and analytical aspects of the project, particularly in its cell culture lab. The research will concentrate on early cell line development of high-value marine fish species, with a focus on fish varieties like pomfret, kingfish, and seerfish.
Responsibilities of Each Party
CMFRI will lead research on early cell line development, while Neat Meatt will optimize cell growth media, develop scaffolds for cell attachment, and scale up production through bioreactors. Neat Meatt will also provide necessary consumables, manpower, and additional equipment.
Potential Benefits and Applications
Lab-grown fish meat has the potential to address the growing demand for seafood, reduce pressure on wild resources, and offer food security and environmental benefits. It is expected to be antibiotics- and contamination-free, avoiding contact with pollutants in oceans.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the primary focus of the collaborative research between CMFRI and Neat Meatt Biotech?
- A. Animal breeding techniques
- B. Genetic modification of fish
- C. Cultivated meat technology solutions
- D. Wild fisheries management
- How is lab-grown fish meat produced?
- A. By catching fish in the wild
- B. By isolating and cultivating fish cells in a laboratory setting
- C. By genetically modifying fish embryos
- D. By using traditional fish farming methods
- Which fish varieties will CMFRI initially focus on in the research project?
- A. Salmon and tuna
- B. Pomfret, kingfish, and seerfish
- C. Catfish and tilapia
- D. Cod and halibut
- What environmental benefits are associated with lab-grown fish meat?
- A. Reduced pressure on wild resources
- B. Increased overfishing
- C. Antibiotics and contamination in fish
- D. Heavy metal contamination in oceans
- Which country is mentioned as a frontrunner in the development of lab-grown fish meat?
- A. India
- B. Singapore
- C. Israel
- D. China