Orf Genetics Develops Cost-Effective Growth Factors for Cultivated Meat Production

Orf Genetics has successfully reduced growth factor costs by producing them using barley proteins instead of traditional E. coli methods. This approach allows them to offer growth factors at a lower price point, essential for the scalability of cultivated meat production.

The company employs a process where DNA coding for desired growth factors is integrated into barley stem cells, which are cultivated and selectively bred to enhance production efficiency. Additionally, Orf's operations leverage geothermal energy in Iceland and extend barley cultivation to Canada, Chile, and Argentina.

While the cost of cell culture medium has decreased significantly over the years, further reductions remain necessary. The industry continues to face regulatory hurdles that may impede growth despite advancements in production methods.