Upside Foods to Unveil Pop-Up Ahead of Cultivated Meat Ban

Cultivated meat company Upside Foods revealed it is hosting a pop-up event on June 27 to celebrate “the future of food and the importance of food freedom” in advance of Florida’s statewide ban on cultivated meat, slated to take effect July 1.

Upside Foods was the first company to introduce a cultivated meat product to the U.S. market following regulatory clearances from the FDA and USDA. Cultivated meat is produced by growing cells extracted from an animal’s body without slaughtering the animal in the process.

On May 1, Governor Ron DeSantis signed Senate Bill 1084 into law, criminalizing the production and sale of cultivated meat in Florida, said Upside Foods.

"We believe that cultivated meat is an essential part of the future of food, and that people should have the right to choose what goes on their plates," said Dr. Uma Valeti, CEO and founder of Upside Foods, in a statement. "This law disregards food safety experts, limits consumer choice, and stifles American innovation. It's a setback for progress, job creation, and Florida's potential in a new industry. We believe in a future where everyone has access to delicious food options, and this event is our way of showcasing what's possible."

The event will feature Miami chef, restaurant owner, and TV personality, Mika Leon, alongside mixologist Gio Gutierrez. It will be open to the public for free on a first-come, first-served basis.