In today’s rapidly evolving world, traditional practices may have to adapt to changing economic, environmental, and demographic factors to survive. This means that the customary position of turkey on the Christmas dinner table may not be guaranteed in the future. The public’s heightened concern for environmental issues is transforming consumer preferences, with 68% of consumers giving priority to sustainable products made from renewable resources. Additionally, 22% value plant-based products as crucial. Despite this shift, meat production worldwide has risen by 45% since 2000, with population growth and increased protein consumption in developing countries being the main driver. Nevertheless, providing a sufficient and nutritious supply of protein, as well as reducing carbon emissions, is critical as the impact of climate change intensifies. This challenge has led to the growth of agricultural technology, with innovative solutions such as 3D printing offering an alternative approach to meat cultivation through layering of animal cells and cross-linked protein polymers. Although this new technology offers promise, its adoption may face obstacles, with 50% of global consumers still uncertain about lab-grown meat. Nonetheless, the growing investment in 3D printing technology for meat and plant-based products suggests key milestones can be expected in the coming years. The prospect of a 3D-printed turkey may seem distant this Christmas, but the long-term impacts of this emerging technology on our eating habits are intriguing.
