The Association for Meat, Poultry, and Seafood Innovation Leads the Evolving Cultivated/Cell-Cultured Meat Industry
(WASHINGTON, D.C) On the heels of the historic first FDA green light for the cultivated/cell-cultured meat industry in the United States, the Association for Meat, Poultry and Seafood Innovation formally announces its transition into an industry trade association. Previously an informal alliance, the incorporation of AMPS Innovation signifies the continued maturation of the industry, illustrated through the substantial advancements over the past few years.
Representing leading food companies dedicated to producing meat, poultry and seafood directly from animal cells, AMPS Innovation is committed to helping advance the cultivated/cell-cultured meats and seafood industry through education, advocacy, and thought leadership.
“Today’s food landscape is changing quickly and cultivated/cell-cultured meat is at the forefront of innovation, helping to meet the growing demand for meat, poultry and seafood through delicious, healthy and sustainable food options,” said Dave Tonucci, the newly elected president of AMPS Innovation. “Formalizing AMPS Innovation allows us to properly support the needs of the cultivated/cell-cultured meat, poultry, and seafood industry via science-based regulatory advocacy and transparent communications on the production, safety and benefits of cultivated meat, poultry and seafood.”
As part of the formalization to an association, AMPS Innovation hired Kellen, a global association management and communications company that helps build stronger not-for-profit organizations, so that they can make the greatest impact. Robert Rankin has been named as AMPS Innovation’s first executive director, and a new leadership team has been established. The long-term vision of incorporation also legitimizes the ability to provide a science-based unified voice for this ever-evolving industry to policymakers, industry partners, advocates and consumers.
“Kellen is proud to partner with AMPS Innovation, the leading association representing the cultivated/cell-cultured meat industry,” said Rankin, who has nearly 20 years’ experience running trade associations. “We are currently experiencing a food revolution in the U.S. and globally. Kellen is excited to work with AMPS Innovation and its members who are not only changing the food and agriculture industry by providing a new option for consumers looking for alternative sources for meat, poultry and seafood, but positively impacting the entire food sector and the environment through sustainable practices.”
Cultivated/cell-cultured meat, poultry and seafood is real meat, poultry and seafood—not a vegan or vegetarian meat alternative. The process begins by sourcing a small number of animal cells from high-quality meat, poultry or fish. Members of AMPS Innovation are always exploring different techniques of growing those cells into delicious meat, poultry and seafood products.
Last month’s FDA announcement represents a major step in the regulatory process for cultivated/cell-cultured meats and seafood. Additional “no questions” letters are expected as more companies prepare for market entry in the U.S.. In the future, it is also expected that cultivated/cell-cultured meat products will be available at every price range, like conventionally produced meats and seafood today, and will help fulfill the increased demand as global demand continues to grow.
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About the Association for Meat, Poultry & Seafood Innovation
The Association for Meat, Poultry & Seafood Innovation is working to advance new methods of producing real, high-quality, safe meat, poultry and seafood products directly from cells, which, in partnership with the broader agricultural community, will help meet the demands of feeding a growing global population. AMPS Innovation advocates for our industry through sharing our collective expertise, providing insight into our innovation, and committing to safety and transparency with all stakeholders, including industry partners, policymakers, advocates and consumers. To learn more about the AMPS Innovation, visit www.ampsinnovation.org.