Does Lab Grown Meat Have to be labeled?

Does Lab Grown Meat Have to be labeled on Food labels?

Modified On: October 9, 2025

The Lab-Grown Meat Revolution

The newest trend in the food industry has been lab-grown meat also known as cell-cultured meat, synthetic meat, or cultivated meat. As lab-grown beef and lab-grown chicken begin to reach grocery shelves, many consumers are asking: Does lab-grown meat have to be labeled on food packaging?

These label-grown meats are cultivated from animal cells in a controlled environment, yielding products that closely resemble traditional meat in taste and texture. Because they are biologically identical to conventional meat, the main difference often comes down to labeling and packaging: how lab-grown meat is labeled and what must appear on the lab-grown meat packaging to ensure transparency.

One of the key benefits of lab-grown meat is still being tested, and the long-term side effects are not known.

In 2018, Missouri passed a law that prohibited labeling lab-grown meat as “meat” on food labels unless it comes from harvested livestock or poultry.

The Lab-Grown Food Label Dilemma

As lab-grown meat gains traction, a crucial question arises: Should it be labeled differently from conventionally produced meat?

Proponents argue that labeling is essential to provide consumers with transparency and choice. They contend that consumers have the right to know where their food comes from and how it’s produced. On the other hand, opponents believe that labeling lab-grown or cell-cultured meat differently could unfairly stigmatize it or deter consumers from trying it.

Lab Grown Meat Laws and Regulations

Lab grown meat

The labeling of lab-grown meat falls under the shared jurisdiction of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The FDA oversees the safety of cell lines and production processes. The USDA, on the other hand, is responsible for labeling and marketing of meat and poultry products, including their inspection.

In November 2020, the USDA and FDA announced a formal agreement outlining their roles in regulating cell-cultured meat. Under this agreement, the FDA oversees cell collection, growth, and differentiation, while the USDA regulates the production and labeling of the final products. This cooperative framework signals that federal labeling standards will likely continue to evolve.

Additionally, some states have implemented their own lab-grown meat labeling laws.

Missouri (2018) prohibits products from being labeled as “meat” unless derived from harvested livestock or poultry.
Oklahoma (House Bill 1126), effective November 1, 2025, requires products containing manufactured proteins to be clearly labeled and prohibits the use of traditional meat terms like “beef” or “chicken.” Businesses that don’t comply may face misdemeanor charges.
North Carolina (House Bill 134, 2025) mandates that lab-grown or cell-cultured meat products display clear disclosure terms such as “lab-grown,” “cell-cultured,” or “grown in a lab” near the product name in a font size of at least 20 points or matching the surrounding type, whichever is larger.

These emerging laws don’t just regulate terminology; they affect how lab-grown meat labels and synthetic meat packaging must present product names, ingredients, and disclosures to consumers.

Recent State Labeling Updates

In 2025, several states, including North Carolina, advanced new synthetic meat bills requiring clear identification of lab-grown meat on packaging. These laws reinforce a broader trend toward labeling transparency, aiming to reduce consumer confusion as cell-cultured and synthetic meat production scales up nationwide.

The Future of Lab-Grown Meat Labeling

Many people wonder, “Will lab-grown meat be labeled differently?” or “How is lab-grown meat labeled today?”

While there’s currently no federal requirement for specific lab-grown meat labeling, both the FDA and USDA are reviewing how synthetic meat and cell-cultured beef are presented to consumers. As lab-grown meat packaging becomes more common, expect clear disclosure terms like “lab-grown” or “cell-cultured” to appear near the product name.

The labeling of lab-grown meat remains a complex and evolving issue in the United States. As technology advances and regulatory bodies continue refining oversight, consumers can anticipate greater transparency in how lab-grown meat is labeled.

FAQs on Lab-Grown Meat Labeling

Will lab-grown meat be labeled?

Yes. States such as Missouri, Oklahoma, and North Carolina have enacted or proposed laws requiring clear lab-grown or cell-cultured disclosures on packaging.

How is lab-grown meat labeled on packaging?

Most state rules require the phrase “lab-grown,” “cell-cultured,” or “grown in a lab” to appear next to the product name in a clear and legible font.

Does synthetic meat production require labeling?

Yes. Products created through synthetic meat production must include labeling that identifies their origin and cultivation method to prevent confusion with conventional meat.

Who regulates lab-grown meat labeling?

The FDA regulates cell-culturing processes, while the USDA oversees inspection and labeling for the final lab-grown meat products sold to consumers.

The Bottom Line

Whether you’re labeling lab-grown meat, cell-cultured meat, or traditional food products, ensuring accurate and compliant packaging is key to consumer trust.

At LabelValue, we specialize in custom food and product labeling, helping brands stay compliant with evolving state and federal regulations, from lab-grown meat packaging to everyday food products.

Buy & Make Your Food Labels!

Image from https://www.colorado.edu/