A multi-level perspective of potential transition pathways towards cultured meat: Finnish and German political stakeholder perceptions

Abstract

Cellular agriculture and its products, such as cultured meat, are suggested to have the potential to advance the sustainability of current food systems. Instead of engaging in current debates concerning the anticipated benefits and challenges of cellular agriculture, it is more useful to identify potential pathways leading to food system transitions. Our study aims to compare Finnish and German political stakeholders' (n = 25) perceptions concerning cultured meat and to analyse its potential transition pathways utilising the multi-level perspective (MLP). Data were collected via semi-structured theme interviews in early 2020. Results show that the participants acknowledge that landscape-level pressures, such as climate change or finite resources, are challenging current food systems. The food regime's position is perceived as somewhat uncertain. The current practices of livestock agriculture, strong food traditions and multiple interest groups' aspirations are anticipated to both hinder and advance a transition to cellular agriculture. On the niche innovation level, cultured meat was perceived as a promising yet technocratic solution. Cultured meat may be an option for continued meat consumption without feelings of guilt but with preconditions such as guaranteed safety, affordable prices and an authentic meat taste similar or better compared with conventionally produced meat. Our article concludes with three potential transition pathways for cellular agriculture. The “technocratic stagnation” pathway is characterised by perceived threats and stakeholder unwillingness to accept cultured meat. The “promising circumstances” pathway is emphasised by positive societal conditions for cultured meat development and stakeholders' incremental adaptation to it as an additional food product on the market. The “rapid advancement” pathway is characterised by technological breakthroughs and high acceptance of cultured meat, which could lead to radical changes in the current food system.