The Orthodox Union’s kosher certification division, OU Kosher, has announced that Israeli start-up SuperMeat’s cultivated chicken cell line meets kosher standards. This recognition is a first for the kosher certification agency and for cultivated meat as a whole. The CEO of SuperMeat, Ido Savir, emphasizes the significance of aligning their technology with kosher dietary laws and sees this recognition as paving the way for other companies in the cultivated meat industry.
The OU’s recognition followed halachic discussions and scientific reviews that focused on avian embryogenesis and stem cells. Working in collaboration with the OU and influential rabbis, SuperMeat carefully ensured that their sourcing and process met the highest standards of Kashrut (dietary laws). They obtain stem cells from fertilized eggs at an early stage, prior to the emergence of blood spots, eliminating the need for slaughter and blood involvement. SuperMeat also clarified that they do not use foetal bovine serum (FBS) or any other animal components in their media or process, simplifying the kosher certification process.
Achieving kosher recognition is a significant milestone for SuperMeat, as it allows their cultivated chicken products to be available to Jewish communities worldwide. The start-up plans to launch their products initially in the US, which has a large Jewish population, and later expand into Switzerland with the help of their partnership with Swiss retailer Migros. They have also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with PHW Group, a major poultry producer in Europe, to bring their cultivated chicken, turkey, and duck products to European consumers.
SuperMeat is also interested in obtaining halal certification to cater to diverse dietary needs globally. The kosher certification from OU Kosher sets a precedent for this pursuit, as meat that is considered kosher is also deemed halal. SuperMeat acknowledges the similarities between the kosher and halal certification processes, and their intention is to provide options for both kosher and halal consumers.
SuperMeat’s alignment with kosher standards and the recognition from OU Kosher is a significant achievement for the cultivated meat industry. It sets clear guidelines for other companies and broadens the options for kosher consumers worldwide. SuperMeat’s plans for global expansion, including partnerships with retailers and poultry producers, show their commitment to providing innovative and sustainable food options to a diverse range of consumers.
