Tennessee lawmakers consider ban on lab-grown meat

JACKSON, Tenn. — Tennessee lawmakers are considering legislation that would prohibit lab-grown meat in the state.

House Bill 1155 was introduced earlier this month and was heard in the Agriculture and Natural Resources Subcommittee Wednesday.

The proposed bill states “as introduced, prohibits the importation, sale, and distribution of cell-cultured food products in the state.”

The bill would prohibit meat that is produced by growing animal cells in labs and ensure meat that Tennesseans eat has come from farmers and meat producers.

House Representative Susan Lynn is the sponsor for this bill and said it would help protect Tennesseans and preserve agriculture in the state.

“The bill protects consumers and strengthens transparency. It supports our agriculture heritage and ensures Tennessee maintains control over its food market,” Lynn said.

Agriculture has been a significant part of the state and Lynn said cell-cultured products could undermine the tradition.

“Our livestock, poultry, and traditional farming sectors are the backbone of rural Tennessee,” Lynn said.

Dr. Denise Sibley is an internal medicine physician from Johnson City and supports the proposed bill.

She explained research that has shown health hazards regarding lab-grown meat.

“The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and World Health Organization expert panel in 2023 concluded that there is at least 53 potential health hazards associated with the process of lab-grown meat. The hazards could include a contamination of metals, microplastics, nanoplastics, chemicals, allergens, prions, and other toxins,” Sibley said.

Several other states have prohibited lab-grown meat and if this bill passes Tennessee will join them.

Stay with WBBJ 7 Eyewitness News on-air and online for continued updates as it progresses through legislature.

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