MeaTech and Umami join forces to develop 3-D structured cell-cultured seafood products

Israel-based deep-tech food company, MeaTech, has signed a memorandum of understanding with Singapore-based Umami Meats to develop 3-D printed cultured structured seafood.

MeaTech has developed 3D bioprinting technology with the ability to produce cell-based meat products using precise industrial production, without negative impacts on cell viability. The company works with a private subsidiary and is developing and commercializing 3D printing in-house as well as branching out to additional third parties in the food industry.

“We are delighted to establish this collaboration with MeaTech to expand our product range with their 3D printing capabilities. This partnership will enable us to build upon our technology platform for cultivating fish muscle and fat to produce a variety of structured products that meet the desires of discerning consumers. We believe cultivated seafood holds tremendous potential to provide a local, sustainable source of healthy protein and to address many of the challenges facing our food system and our oceans,” Umami Meats Chief Executive Officer and Founder Mihir Pershad said.

The agreement will add seafood to its existing set of products, which includes bovine, avian, and porcine products, the company said. 

“We are very pleased about this new agreement which reflects our commercialization strategy of industry collaboration using our unique 3D printing capabilities. We are excited about entering into the seafood sector and believe it will lead us to new market pathways throughout Asia and worldwide,” MeaTech Chief Executive Officer and Founder Arik Kaufman said.

Both companies said they are striving to work towards marine ecosystem and wildlife conservation, while simultaneously addressing the environmental difficulties faced by the aquaculture and fishing industries. They added the collaboration demonstrates leadership in the Asian market and Singapore, as it is only country that has authorized the production and distribution of cell-cultured meat.

Photo courtesy of MeaTech