MONTGOMERY — Alabama became the second state in the nation to ban lab-grown meat after Gov. Kay Ivey signed a bill on Wednesday prohibiting and providing criminal penalties for anyone who sells, manufactures or distributes lab-grown meat.
The bill, SB23, was sponsored and proposed by State Sen. Jack Williams (R-Wilmer) and carried in the House by State Rep. Danny Crawford (R-Athens).
Also referred to as "cultured meat" or "cultivated meat," lab-grown meat is a meat alternative made from animal stem cells. The cells are placed in petri dishes with amino acids and carbohydrates to help the muscle cells multiply and grow.
"Take your fake meat elsewhere," Williams said. "We're not doing that in Alabama."
"These folks are throwing a couple of animal cells in there with some chemicals and calling it meat. Alabamians want to know what they are eating, and we have no idea what is in this stuff or how it will affect us," he added. "Meat comes from livestock raised by hardworking farmers and ranchers, not from a petri dish grown by scientists. We are protecting our farmers and the integrity of American agriculture."
Alabama farmers have played a crucial role in sustaining our nation, feeding and clothing America through their dedication and hard work for generations.
While global elites push a petri dish meat diet on Americans and tell the world to forgo meat consumption altogether, Alabama is protecting real meat production and encouraging residents to continue to consume and enjoy 100% real Alabama beef.
Crawford said, "This law will strengthen our livestock and poultry industry by preventing lab-cultured cells from being sold in Alabama."
"To our consumers, the quality and safety of our agricultural products are of the upmost importance, and these lab-grown protein cells can't be assured to be safe," he added.
Erin Beasley, executive vice president of the Alabama Cattlemen's Association, said, "We greatly appreciate Senator Jack Williams and Representative Danny Crawford for working to protect consumers in Alabama."
"Cattlemen work hard every day to raise cattle to produce high-quality beef. The tireless efforts of Senator Williams and Rep. Crawford this session will ensure Alabamians continue to purchase safe, wholesome, real beef," she added.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email caleb.taylor@1819News.com.
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