EU Approves Lab-Grown Meat for Pet Food in Historic First

BioCraft Pet Nutrition has become the first company in the European Union authorised to produce cultured animal cells for pet food. Austrian regulators granted the firm registration to use Category 3 Animal Byproducts (ABP), allowing it to expand production of its lab-grown ingredients. The move marks a significant step in bringing cultivated protein to the pet food market. The approval lets BioCraft multiply animal cells for direct use in pet food formulas. Its first product, derived from mouse cells, matches the natural prey diet of cats and dogs. Unlike traditional meat slurry, BioCraft’s ingredients contain no biogenic amines, which can harm pets in high amounts.

The company’s process uses non-immortalized, non-genetically modified cells, ensuring safety and compliance. Its ingredients are also free from bacterial pathogens, viruses, mycotoxins, moulds, yeasts, and heavy metals. Nutritionally, they provide a similar profile to conventional meat slurry but with an improved omega-6 to omega-3 ratio.

BioCraft has fulfilled all regulatory requirements, including notification to the EU Feed Material Register. Pet food manufacturers can now substitute traditional meat slurry with BioCraft’s cultured protein on a one-to-one basis. With this registration, BioCraft can now supply its cultured protein to pet food producers across the EU. The ingredients offer a cleaner, controlled alternative to traditional meat sources while maintaining nutritional quality. The company’s compliance with EU feed regulations sets a precedent for future cultivated pet food products.