SuperMeat, an Israeli start-up, has received the first-ever kosher recognition for its cultivated chicken cell line from the Orthodox Union’s kosher certification division, OU Kosher. This recognition holds immense significance for the company, as it aligns its technology with kosher dietary laws and highlights their meticulous attention to detail and high standards.
SuperMeat CEO Ido Savir believes that this historic initiative not only expands options for kosher consumers worldwide but also sets clear guidelines for other companies in the cultivated meat industry. The Orthodox Union’s recognition was based on halachic discussions and scientific reviews, ensuring that the chicken cell line meets the highest standards of Kashrut.
SuperMeat is committed to upholding kosher standards by sourcing embryonic stem cells from fertilized chicken eggs before the appearance of blood spots. Additionally, they do not use foetal bovine serum or any other animal components in their media or process. The absence of animal components streamlines the kosher certification process and has led to a consortium of approval.
In addition to meeting kosher standards, the cultivated chicken cell line also meets Mehadrin standards, which represent the highest level of kosher supervision. However, it is important to note that SuperMeat is still in the pre-commercial production phase, and an official Kosher Certification can only be granted once the company begins commercial manufacturing.
SuperMeat aims to expand its products globally, starting with the United States, which has the second-largest Jewish population after Israel. The company also plans to launch in Switzerland by partnering with Swiss retailer Migros and has signed a memorandum of understanding with Europe’s largest poultry producer, PHW Group, to introduce cultivated chicken, turkey, and duck products to European consumers.
In addition to kosher certifications, SuperMeat is also interested in achieving halal certification, which shares similarities with the kosher certification process. This would allow the company to cater to the diverse dietary needs of audiences globally.