The acceptance of 3D-printed meat has significantly increased in Germany, with many citizens already reducing their meat consumption due to climate and environmental concerns. The average meat consumption per person in Germany is around 70 kilograms per year. However, more and more people are questioning the impact of meat consumption on the environment, climate, and their own health. According to a survey by the Federal Association of Information Technology, Telecommunications and New Media (Bitkom), around one-sixth (17%) of Germans can now imagine consuming meat from a 3D printer as an alternative. In 2019, the proportion was only one-eighth (13%).
The skepticism towards 3D-printed meat has also decreased in recent years. In the current survey, 24% of participants said they would “rather not try” artificially produced meat from a 3D printer, while 53% said they “definitely do not want to try it.” In 2019, 62% of respondents rejected the meat alternative in principle. Andreas Schweikert, Head of Agriculture at Bitkom, explains that “increasingly more people are aware of the impact of meat consumption on the environment and climate and are willing to explore alternative ways. However, some find it difficult to change their eating habits, and many do not want to give up meat. At this point, digital meat production from a 3D printer can be a solution.”
Nearly half of Germans (45%) reported that they have already reduced their meat consumption due to climate change, with one-tenth claiming to have completely given up meat. Another 24% would like to reduce their consumption but find it challenging. Only one-fifth (20%) said they do not want to change their habits, regardless of the known consequences of high meat consumption. There are noticeable differences in consumption habits between genders, with more than half of women (51%) willing to eat less or no meat, compared to only 38% of men.
An Israeli start-up, Redefine Meat, recently announced that 3D-printed steaks will be available in some restaurants in Germany in a few months. Once the capacities are sufficient, these products will also be offered in retail stores. The increasing acceptance of 3D-printed meat in Germany reflects a growing awareness of the environmental and health impacts of meat consumption and a willingness to explore alternative solutions.
