5 Religious Views on Non-Slaughtered Meat

Can cultivated meat align with religious dietary laws? This question is at the heart of debates across major faiths. Cultivated meat, grown from animal cells without slaughter, offers a new way to produce food. But its acceptance depends on how it fits with specific religious principles.

Here’s a quick overview of how five major religions view this innovation:

• Islam: Cultivated meat can be halal if it meets strict criteria, including the use of cells from halal-slaughtered animals and permissible culture mediums. However, rulings vary by region.
• Judaism: Opinions are divided. Some rabbis see it as kosher if derived from kosher animals, while others stress the need for ritual slaughter.
• Hinduism: While it aligns with the principle of non-violence (), concerns remain about the sacred status of cows and the ethical treatment of animals used for cell sourcing.
• Buddhism: Many Buddhists see it as reducing harm, but some worry it may encourage attachment to meat consumption, conflicting with spiritual discipline.
• Christianity: Generally permissible, with a focus on ethical responsibility and stewardship. Some concerns exist about the impact on farming communities and "playing God."

Quick Comparison

Cultivated meat offers potential solutions to ethical and environmental challenges, but its acceptance will require navigating complex religious and cultural questions. Each faith brings unique perspectives, making collaboration with religious authorities key to its broader adoption.

1. Islamic View

The Islamic perspective on cultivated meat offers a fascinating example of how faith-based communities adapt long-standing dietary principles to modern advancements. At the heart of this discussion is the concept of halal - what is permissible under Islamic law. For the 1.8 billion Muslims worldwide, determining whether cultivated meat aligns with these dietary laws is a matter of significant importance.

Permissibility

In June 2025, the International Islamic Fiqh Academy (IIFA) addressed this issue during its 26th conference in Doha. The Academy ruled that cultivated meat can be considered halal if three key conditions are met: the source cells must come from animals that are permissible to eat and slaughtered according to Islamic law, the culture medium must be free from prohibited substances like blood, and the production process must follow trustworthy regulatory standards [1]. Josh Tetrick, co-founder and CEO of GOOD Meat, highlighted the importance of this ruling by stating:

Official Rulings or Opinions

Several Islamic authorities have weighed in on the matter, with many offering cautiously optimistic views. In 2024, the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore issued a fatwa declaring cultivated meat halal, followed by the Korean Muslim Federation in 2025. Earlier in 2022, the Assembly of Muslim Jurists of America deemed it provisionally permissible [1]. Additionally, in 2023, three prominent Shariah scholars from Saudi Arabia - Sheikh Abdullah AlManea, Professor Abdullah al-Mutlaq, and Professor Saad Al-Shathry - advised GOOD Meat that cultivated chicken could be considered halal, provided it meets specific criteria. These include ensuring the nutrients used are permissible and that the product is safe for human consumption [1][2].

However, not all rulings have been favourable. For example, the Nahdlatul Ulama Institute in Indonesia ruled in 2021 that cell-based meat is haram, citing concerns about extracting stem cells from living animals and the use of non-halal culture mediums [3].

Ethical/Spiritual Concerns

The debate among Muslim scholars extends beyond the technicalities of halal certification. Some question whether cultivated meat fits the Islamic definition of meat. While some scholars compare the process to natural plant growth, others argue that the life status of cultivated meat is ambiguous, placing it in a grey area (syubhah) until further clarity is provided. Additionally, the principle of tayyib - which emphasises purity, wholesomeness, and overall health benefits - further influences Islamic views on the acceptability of cultivated meat [3]. This ongoing discussion mirrors broader efforts to reconcile religious dietary ethics with emerging technologies.

Barriers to Acceptance

Despite positive rulings from major Islamic authorities, several challenges remain. One key issue is the need for clear halal certification guidelines [1]. Technical hurdles also persist, such as concerns over using non-halal culture mediums like fetal bovine serum and debates about whether stem cells must be extracted from animals slaughtered according to Islamic law. Some scholars suggest that extraction may be permissible if it does not cause pain [3].

Encouragingly, the cultivated meat industry appears to be taking these concerns seriously. A 2023 survey of 44 companies in the sector revealed that 87% prioritised compliance with halal requirements [1]. Given the global halal market's valuation of US$202 billion in 2021, projected to grow to US$375.05 billion by 2030 [2], addressing these challenges is not only a matter of faith but also a significant economic opportunity.

2. Jewish View

The Jewish perspective on cultivated meat brings together centuries-old dietary laws and cutting-edge food technology. For cultivated meat to be embraced, it must adhere to - the set of dietary rules that guide Jewish eating practices.

Permissibility

Under , meat must come from kosher species and be prepared through (ritual slaughter). This raises important questions about whether cultivated meat can meet these traditional standards. Key factors include the source of the original cells, the methods used to grow the meat, and the ingredients in the growth medium [9].

In a landmark decision on 18 January 2023, Israel's Chief Rabbi David Lau declared Aleph Farms' cultivated steak kosher. He even classified it as (neither meat nor dairy), as it is not derived from a slaughtered animal and contains no blood [7]. Rabbi Lau explained:

However, he noted that the product should not be marketed as meat. This ruling has sparked debate, with different Jewish authorities offering varying interpretations.

Official Rulings or Opinions

Opinions within the Jewish community are far from unified. Rabbi Menachem Genack, for example, disputes Rabbi Lau’s ruling, stating:

Rabbi Genack argues that the tissue samples must come from an animal slaughtered in accordance with kosher rules, rather than from a biopsy of a living animal [8]. He suggests that using genetic material from a freshly slaughtered kosher animal might resolve these concerns [7]. This divide highlights the challenge of applying ancient laws to modern innovations.

Ethical and Spiritual Concerns

Ethical considerations also play a significant role in the discussion. Some Jewish scholars worry that harvesting cells from a living animal could violate the prohibition against consuming parts of a living creature [4][5]. The principle of - which calls for minimising animal suffering - further complicates the debate [10][11]. Rabbi David Rosen, former Chief Rabbi of Ireland, has expressed a strong ethical stance, stating:

This perspective suggests that cultivated meat, produced without harming animals, might offer a way to align ethical concerns with kosher dietary practices.

Barriers to Acceptance

While cultivated meat promises ethical benefits, several practical and ceremonial hurdles remain. One major concern is - the idea that actions appearing to violate Jewish law could lead to misunderstandings. For example, eating cultivated meat with dairy might cause observers to mistakenly think traditional meat-and-dairy combinations are allowed [12].

Another challenge is the use of fetal bovine serum (FBS) in the growth medium, which raises issues under due to the prohibition against consuming blood [9].

The kosher food market is projected to reach £80 billion by 2030 [6], yet up to 80% of cattle processed in kosher slaughterhouses fail to meet strict kosher standards, driving up costs [6]. Cultivated meat, once its status is clarified, could offer a more consistent and cost-effective way to meet kosher requirements. However, consensus among religious authorities is essential for it to gain broader acceptance.

3. Hindu View

The Hindu perspective on cultivated meat revolves around the principle of - non-violence - a deeply rooted concept that warrants careful consideration. This principle shapes much of the discussion about whether cultivated meat aligns with traditional Hindu values.

Permissibility

Hindu scriptures present mixed views on meat consumption. In some contexts, meat is permitted when offered to gods or ancestors [14]. However, interpretations of these texts vary widely among scholars and practitioners.

The principle of strongly supports vegetarianism within Hinduism, promoting a diet that avoids harm to living beings [4]. As Mat McDermott from the Hindu American Foundation explains:

Given this flexibility, cultivated meat may appeal to Hindus who see it as compatible with , as it avoids the direct harm associated with traditional meat production.

Ethical and Spiritual Concerns

From an ethical standpoint, cultivated meat aligns with by eliminating the need to kill animals [4]. However, spiritual concerns complicate the picture. According to Ayurvedic principles, lab-grown meat is categorised as , meaning it is considered heavy and difficult to digest. McDermott elaborates:

Additionally, questions arise about the ethical treatment of animals used for sourcing cells. Some Hindus may view the biopsy process for obtaining these cells as a form of exploitation. Hindu teachings, which often advocate treating animals with the same care as one's own children, may influence these opinions [15].

These ethical and spiritual reflections highlight the complexities of adopting cultivated meat within Hindu communities.

Barriers to Acceptance

Even though cultivated meat aligns with in theory, several barriers could hinder its acceptance among Hindus. One major obstacle is the sacred status of cows. For many Hindus, consuming cultivated beef - even without harming cows - remains psychologically challenging due to the deep cultural and spiritual reverence for these animals. Vedic texts reinforce this sentiment, stating: "O human! animals are 'Aghnya' – not to be killed. Protect the animals" [15].

Dietary habits also play a role. While many Hindus consume poultry, lamb, or goat, and express interest in cultivated versions of these meats, beef and pork remain far less popular choices [4]. Surveys suggest that these preferences could influence the demand for specific types of cultivated meat.

The diversity within Hindu practices adds another layer of complexity. Recent data shows that 70% of Indians identify as non-vegetarian [14], with the National Family Health Survey (NHFS-5) 2019–21 reporting that 52.5% of Hindu men and 40.7% of Hindu women consume meat [14]. This variability suggests that attitudes toward cultivated meat will differ based on individual beliefs and regional traditions.

Lastly, some critics argue that cultivated meat perpetuates the commodification of animals, rather than encouraging a more respectful and harmonious relationship with nature [16]. This perspective could shape resistance to its adoption among certain Hindu groups.

4. Buddhist View

Buddhism’s principle of non-violence plays a significant role in shaping dietary habits, though interpretations vary. Many Buddhists are willing to eat meat as long as the animal wasn’t slaughtered specifically for them [19]. From this perspective, cultivated meat - produced without killing animals - might align with the philosophy of non-harm. In China, roughly 18% of the population identifies as Buddhist, but only about 4% adhere to a vegetarian diet [17]. Globally, the numbers are even lower, with just 1.4% of Buddhists practising vegetarianism or veganism [18].

Ethical and Spiritual Concerns

Buddhism’s teachings on non-harm raise ethical questions about traditional meat production, particularly the suffering it causes animals [17]. The belief in the interconnectedness of all life, where every being is part of a continuous cycle of rebirth, adds another layer of complexity. Some argue that consuming any living being could symbolically harm a loved one [17].

Mindfulness, a core Buddhist practice, also invites reflection on whether craving the taste of meat - even when it’s cultivated - might encourage attachment to sensory pleasures. While cultivated meat aligns with the idea of non-violence, its meat-like nature may conflict with the disciplined vegetarian ideals upheld by some practitioners [19]. These differing views highlight Buddhism’s adaptable approach to ethical and spiritual matters, leaving room for individual interpretation.

Official Rulings or Opinions

Given the absence of historical precedent for lab-grown meat, most Buddhists rely on general ethical principles to form their stance [18][19]. However, some traditions have taken a firmer position. For instance, the 17th Karmapa of the Karma Kagyu tradition issued a strict prohibition in 2007 against buying, cooking, or consuming meat in Karma Kagyu centres and monasteries. He stated:

This stance reflects a more rigid interpretation of Buddhist ethics regarding meat consumption.

Barriers to Acceptance

Despite the ethical advantages of cultivated meat, several challenges could limit its acceptance within Buddhist communities. One concern is that even non-slaughtered meat might reinforce attachment to its taste, potentially hindering spiritual growth. This is particularly relevant for Zen Buddhists, who often avoid strong flavours to maintain mental clarity during meditation [17].

Regional differences also influence attitudes. For example, lay Buddhists in Sri Lanka are increasingly adopting ethical vegetarianism, while more flexible dietary practices remain common in parts of East Asia [20]. Additionally, some practitioners prioritise minimising food waste over adhering to strict dietary rules [17].

Empirical data sheds light on these diverse perspectives. Research shows that 81% of Buddhist respondents would consider eating cultured beef, with similarly high interest in cultured pork (73%), goat (66%), and chicken (61%) [18].

These figures indicate a mix of curiosity and acceptance, particularly for beef, while poultry shows a notable drop in appeal. This underscores the ongoing tension between ethical principles and traditional dietary habits in the Buddhist perspective on cultivated meat.

5. Christian View

In Christianity, food choices are often seen through the lens of ethical responsibility and stewardship over creation. Unlike religions with strict dietary laws, Christianity offers a more flexible approach, focusing instead on how these choices reflect one’s relationship with God and the natural world.

Permissibility

From a theological perspective, cultivated meat is generally seen as permissible within Christian doctrine. As David W. T. Brattston explains:

This permissive view aligns with Christianity’s broader approach to dietary matters. While early Christians adhered to some dietary restrictions, these were neither as detailed nor as rigid as those in Judaism or Islam [23]. Additionally, some theologians argue that lab-grown meat fits within the biblical mandate for humans to exercise dominion over creation [22]. This perspective emphasises the ethical use of resources over adherence to ritualistic food laws.

Ethical and Spiritual Concerns

Christian ethics extend beyond permissibility to focus on responsible stewardship. The faith teaches that humans, as caretakers of creation, must use resources wisely while safeguarding the planet’s ecosystems [22]. This principle becomes particularly relevant when considering the environmental impact of traditional meat production, which accounts for roughly 18% of global greenhouse gas emissions [22].

The sheer scale of animal slaughter also raises moral concerns. Each year, approximately 70 billion land animals and countless marine animals are killed to meet the global demand for meat [22]. Many Christians view factory farming as conflicting with their duty to care for creation. As one statement expresses:

This perspective encourages believers to consider alternatives that minimise suffering and promote sustainability.

Official Rulings or Opinions

While no major Christian denominations have issued official statements specifically addressing cultivated meat, theological discussions on the topic are emerging. Scholars generally agree that biotechnology, including lab-grown meat, aligns with Christian teachings [22]. Some even suggest that such advancements fulfil the biblical mandate in Genesis, where humans are tasked with exercising dominion over creation.

This view reframes cultivated meat not as a violation of divine boundaries, but as a way to responsibly manage resources in accordance with God’s design.

Barriers to Acceptance

Despite its permissibility, cultivated meat faces some resistance within Christian circles. A key concern is whether developing such technologies constitutes "playing God" [22]. For some, biotechnology might seem like an overreach, conflicting with the belief in adhering to God’s natural order. However, a closer reading of Genesis 1 and 2 highlights humanity’s unique role as God’s image-bearers, entrusted with subduing and managing the Earth [22].

Economic concerns also pose challenges. The transition to lab-grown meat could disrupt traditional farming communities, raising ethical questions about the impact on vulnerable populations. Christian teachings on justice and compassion suggest an obligation to protect those who might face economic hardship due to these technological shifts [22].

Even with these challenges, many theologians remain hopeful. Biochemist Fazale Rana sums up this optimism by stating:

Benefits and Challenges

The intersection of cultivated meat and religious beliefs presents both opportunities and obstacles. As this technology progresses, its potential to gain support from nearly half the global population highlights the need to consider diverse religious perspectives carefully [4]. This conversation ties into the broader vision of aligning ethical principles with modern food production.

Shared Benefits Across Religions

One of the standout advantages of cultivated meat is its ability to align with the shared principle of respecting life found in many religions. By eliminating the need for animal slaughter, cultivated meat addresses ethical concerns that are central to numerous faiths. This approach reduces animal suffering, resonating with values of compassion and non-violence.

For vegetarian Hindus, cultivated meat offers an alternative that adheres to the principle of (non-violence). Surveys suggest that 60% to 80% of Buddhists view cultivated meat positively [4]. Among Muslims, opinions vary, but roughly half to two-thirds express interest in cultivated beef, poultry, lamb, and goat [4]. These ethical considerations not only appeal to consumers but also hint at significant economic potential.

Market Potential and Consumer Reception

The market possibilities are vast. Halal consumers, for instance, represent a sizable portion of the global market. In the United States, there are over 12 million kosher consumers and approximately 8 million halal consumers [26].

Singapore's approval of cultivated meat for public consumption underscores its ability to cross religious and cultural divides, showing how diverse populations can embrace this innovation [4].

Challenges with Religious Certification

Despite its benefits, cultivated meat faces hurdles in gaining acceptance, particularly within Islam and Judaism. Certification processes are complex, with differing rulings and criteria posing challenges. These issues could slow market expansion as religious communities work to navigate the lack of historical guidance for this new category of food [4].

Saliza Binti Mohd Elias, an associate professor at Universiti Putra Malaysia, highlights the pivotal role of religious authorities in acceptance:

Contradictions in rulings add to the complexity. For example, Singapore's Mufti declared cultivated meat permissible for Muslims in 2024, provided the cells come from halal animals and contain no prohibited components [19]. In contrast, Indonesia's Nahdlatul Ulama, the world's largest Islamic organisation, ruled in 2021 that cells taken from living animals and grown in bioreactors are (forbidden) [4].

Practical Barriers to Adoption

Beyond religious concerns, practical barriers such as high costs and psychological resistance remain significant. Jason Ng, Vice President of Manufacturing at Cell AgriTech Sdn Bhd, explains:

Even with its ethical advantages, some Hindus may hesitate to embrace cultivated beef due to the sacred status of cows, just as Muslims and Jews might resist cultivated pork [4]. Surveys also show that Buddhists, despite theoretical support, tend to prefer traditionally slaughtered meat across species [4]. Overcoming these practical challenges is essential to unlocking the full potential of cultivated meat.

Perspectives from Religious Authorities

Responses from religious leaders vary widely. Industry leaders acknowledge these challenges. Josh Tetrick, CEO of GOOD Meat, highlights the importance of inclusivity:

Finding a way forward will require creative solutions and collaboration with religious authorities. Balancing doctrinal requirements with practical realities, while maintaining the spiritual integrity of each faith, will be key to the success of cultivated meat.

Conclusion

Religious views on cultivated meat highlight a shared foundation of ethical principles across various faiths. While doctrines may differ, values such as compassion, care for the environment, and respect for life resonate universally.

Surveys indicate growing acceptance of cultivated meat among different religious communities, pointing to its considerable market potential. Singapore's recent regulatory approval further underscores this trend [4].

Beyond its ethical appeal, cultivated meat addresses urgent global issues, from reducing animal suffering to mitigating environmental challenges. As eco-theologian Larry L. Rasmussen aptly puts it:

Even so, bringing this vision to life requires navigating complex theological questions. With no historical precedent for this kind of food, religious leaders face the task of interpreting its place within their dietary traditions. Achieving harmony with these teachings will be essential for broader acceptance [24].

FAQs

How is cultivated meat viewed through the lens of non-violence in major religions?

Cultivated meat is gaining recognition as a way to uphold the principle of non-violence cherished by various religions. In Hinduism, it aligns with , the practice of avoiding harm to living beings. Similarly, Buddhism and Jainism, which emphasise compassion and non-harm, see it as a peaceful option that supports spiritual ideals. At the same time, some Jewish and Islamic scholars are exploring whether it can comply with kosher and halal dietary laws, offering a way to minimise animal suffering while respecting religious guidelines.

By producing real meat without the need for slaughter, cultivated meat provides an ethical choice that resonates deeply with the spiritual and moral values of these faiths, reflecting a shared desire to reduce harm and embrace more compassionate practices.

What challenges do religious communities face in accepting cultivated meat?

Religious views on cultivated meat often revolve around its compatibility with faith-based dietary rules and moral values. A key question is whether it can be classified as or , as these labels require adherence to specific rituals, blessings, and preparation methods. There’s also the matter of whether creating meat without slaughter aligns with spiritual beliefs about the sanctity of life.

For some faith communities, the unfamiliarity of the technology or uncertainty about how it fits into longstanding traditions may lead to hesitation. Engaging in open discussions and seeking input from religious leaders can provide clarity, helping individuals understand cultivated meat as a potential ethical and environmentally friendly option.

What impact could cultivated meat have on traditional farming communities, and what ethical questions does it raise?

The growth of cultivated meat has the potential to reshape traditional farming communities by decreasing the need for conventional livestock farming. While this shift brings clear benefits for the environment and animal welfare, it also raises concerns about the economic impact on rural areas and the possible loss of farming traditions that have been passed down through generations.

On an ethical level, this change sparks crucial debates. How do we balance technological progress with safeguarding the livelihoods of rural communities? And is it acceptable to modify natural processes in pursuit of such advancements? Even with these challenges, cultivated meat offers a more compassionate and eco-friendly alternative to industrial farming, reflecting a commitment to reducing animal suffering and caring for the planet.

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