It may look like pink Jello but scientists hope this new invention could revolutionize meat
What new method did South Korean researchers develop?
South Korean researchers developed a new way to make lab-grown meat taste like real meat by mimicking the flavors generated during the Maillard reaction. They introduced a switchable flavor compound into a gelatin-based hydrogel, which releases meaty flavors when cooked for five minutes at 150 degrees Celsius. This innovation brings lab-grown meat closer to being accepted as a viable, climate-friendly alternative to conventional meat.
How is lab-grown meat created in the laboratory?
Lab-grown meat is created in the laboratory by cultivating animal cells directly on 3D structures called "scaffolds," which allow the cells to multiply, eliminating the need to raise and farm animals. To mimic the taste of conventional meat, researchers recreate the flavors generated during the Maillard reaction, a chemical reaction that occurs between an amino acid and a reducing sugar when heat is added, giving a burger its charred taste.
What key element did previous cultured meats overlook?
Previous cultured meats overlooked the key element of taste. They were able to mimic the look and feel of real meat, but failed to replicate the flavor of conventional meat. Researchers in South Korea have now developed a cultured meat that generates "grilled beef flavors upon cooking," which could make lab-grown meat more widely accepted.