The bill banning the production and sale of synthetic foods and feed has officially passed the Senate in Italy. With 93 votes in favor, 28 against, and 33 abstentions, the proposal is now headed to the Chamber of Deputies for further review. A key aspect of the bill is its restriction on labeling plant-based protein products as “meat,” signaling a shift towards protecting traditional food sectors.
While the focus has been largely on synthetic meats, the seafood industry could stand to benefit from this move. With public and political support leaning heavily towards natural, sustainable food production, Italy’s seafood industry may find a larger platform to promote itself as a healthier, more environmentally friendly alternative. According to a survey by Notosondaggi, 74% of Italians back the ban, indicating widespread support for natural food sources, which could create new opportunities for the seafood sector.
The statement from Coldiretti says, “This reflects our efforts, with over two million signatures collected and support from more than 2,000 municipalities. Political leaders from all sides, national and European parliamentarians, as well as local officials, have backed the cause.”
Coldiretti points out that the Senate’s decision mirrors the concerns raised in the first FAO-WHO report on “Cellular-based food,” which the organizations believe is a clearer term than “cultivated meat.” These global authorities also note that the term “synthetic” is used by academics and the media. The report lists 53 potential health risks tied to lab-grown foods, including allergies and even cancer.
Environmental concerns are part of the issue too. Research from Derrick Risner and his team at the University of California, Davis, found that producing synthetic foods / meat has 4 to 25 times the carbon footprint of traditional beef.
“Italy, being a world leader in food quality and safety, has the responsibility to lead the charge in health and environmental protection,” said Ettore Prandini, Coldiretti’s president. He emphasized the “precautionary principle” that drives the legislation. Prandini also called on European institutions to treat lab-grown foods as pharmaceutical products during the approval process, rather than categorizing them as food.
