Scientists at the Institute of Technical Research in Finland have created the first lab-grown genetically modified coffee, and researchers claim it tastes and smells like real coffee.
And according to what was published by the newspaper “Daily Mail”, today, Monday, the researchers used a process called “cell culture”, and it is intended to extract cells from a small plant or animal sample, and then edit the genes in the laboratory, which is the same method that was used in the manufacture of “laboratory meat.” ' or 'lab milk'.
Samples of cells were taken from the Arabica plant, a famous coffee plant that produces nearly 56 percent of global production, and the researchers say they can address sustainability issues facing the global coffee industry, such as the need to provide space to grow the coffee plant, and to keep pace with demand for coffee. drink all over the world.
Dr. Heiko Rescher, head of plant biotechnology at the institute, explained the steps of the new technology by saying: "In the beginning we use the cells of real coffee plants, and the cell culture is started on a plant part, for example a leaf."
He continued, "After that, the cultured cells multiply in a nutrient medium, and the cells are transferred to a living medium, then the cells are harvested, dried and roasted, and then coffee can be prepared."
And he showed that the first batches produced by the researchers in the laboratory resemble the smell and taste of traditional coffee, according to the results of the sensory analysis.
Dr. Rescher said: "In terms of aroma and taste, our trained sensory team and analytical examination found that the look of the drink resembled regular coffee. The first cup drinking experience was very exciting."
"We still have four years to ramp up production and get regulatory approval," he added.
Currently, all lab-grown coffees are study samples only, and require regulatory approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to be marketed and sold to consumers in the United States.
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