Dutch researchers are on the brink of producing the world’s first synthetic meat. They are about to give the finishing touches to the colour, texture and taste of such meat so that it appeals to human taste buds. It is of course a welcome step. The production of synthetic meat will put an end to the suffering of a huge number of animals which are kept confined in most pathetic conditions. Their mutilation and slaughter also show inhuman cruelty. Slaughter of animals contributes to the accumulation of sizeable amounts of organic waste and chemical additives which pollute the eco-system. A Pew Commission report has revealed that industrial animal farming is detrimental to public health. Synthetic meat will curtail health hazards associated with consumption of battery-farmed animals causing bacterial diseases such as avian flu and the Mad Cow disease which struck Europe some years ago.
Furthermore, synthetic meat will meet a considerable amount of the huge demand for meat which is likely to double by 2050. A million times more synthetic meat can be produced compared to regular cattle farming. However, some animals will still have to be slaughtered to provide cells for synthetic meat. It is hoped that cloning of the cells can remove this problem. Science has alleviated human suffering to a great extent over the centuries. It is expected that synthetic meat can reduce animal suffering likewise. The only snag is that regular meat eaters may not be happy with the synthetic substitute which may defeat the purpose significantly. The real answer lies in promoting vegetarianism.