Trends and Technological Challenges of 3D Bioprinting in Cultured Meat: Technological Prospection

Abstract

Cultured meat presents a possible alternative to conventional meat products and may be used to address growing food demands attributable to global population growth. Thus, a comprehensive technological prospection of the scientific literature related to cultured meat produced by 3D bioprinting is of great interest to researchers. The purpose of this article is to review and analyze published studies related to the biofabrication of cultured meat using 3D bioprinting techniques. The growing number of related publications in recent years highlights that cultured meat has gained traction in the scientific community. Furthermore, private companies and startups have contributed to advancements in the biofabrication of cultured meat for consumption, illustrating that cultured meat as a conventional meat substitute is already becoming reality. However, like any scientific advance, 3D bioprinting of cultured meat faces challenges involving regulation, acceptance, the selection of ideal biomaterials and cell lines, the replacement of fetal bovine serum (FBS), and attaining a texture and nutritional value similar to those of conventional meat.