Precision fermentation produces animal proteins using microorganisms without animal use. This emerging technology could significantly reduce animal welfare harm in food production.
Precision fermentation represents a potentially transformative technology for animal welfare because it produces functional animal proteins without the associated welfare costs. If precision fermentation dairy proteins replace conventional dairy at scale, the welfare of dairy cows and calves — one of the largest and most challenging welfare problems in food production — could be dramatically reduced. The technology faces regulatory, cost and consumer acceptance challenges that limit its near-term impact. However, for food manufacturers seeking animal-identical proteins without the welfare, environmental and supply chain risks of animal agriculture, precision fermentation offers a compelling alternative. Welfare advocates who understand this technology can position it accurately as a complementary approach to other welfare improvements rather than a competing solution.