Some time ago, scientists began trying to create artificial versions of meat, in order to combine solutions with alternatives to real meat. A group of Japanese scientists recently unveiled the world’s first 3D impression of wagyu meat.
Originally from Japan, wagyu meat corresponds to the four Japanese cow breeds and is considered the most expensive in the world.
A group of scholars from Osaka University Made the world's first Wagyu beef by 3D printing it. For this purpose, according to a press release, stem cells isolated from Japanese cattle were used. The end product appears to be a steak with muscle, fat, and blood vessels.
Due to its appearance very similar to marble, promoted by muscle fat, wagyu meat is one of the most expensive and sought after meat in the world. After all, it's these layers of fat that give it its distinct flavor and texture. For these reasons, 3D printing is very complex.
A team of scientists was able to reproduce a specific type of wagyu meat using a special technology. The researchers used two types of cells: bovine satellite and fat-derived stem cells.
After incubating and shaping the cells into different types - a process necessary to generate individual fibers for muscle, fat and blood vessels - they stacked them in a 3-D shape to resemble the appearance of wagyu meat.
Later, scientists adapted a technique for making Japanese sweets and cutting vertically stacked items. This is how they made wagyu steaks. According to scientists, this method can be used to create other types of complex structures.
By optimizing this technology, it will not only be possible to reproduce complex meat textures, such as the beautiful wagyu beef sashimi, but also make minor modifications to the fat and muscle components.
Said Michia Matsusaki, author of the study published in Nature Connections.
Although the team didn't say what price it would sell for and the time associated with producing 3D-printed wagyu steaks, the success of the trial is certainly promising. After all, this could be a more sustainable way to meet demand.
Andrea Hargraves is a contributor to Brytfmonline.com, covering a broad range of topics including news, politics, business, technology, sports, entertainment, and lifestyle. She is committed to delivering clear, accurate, and reader-focused reporting that helps audiences stay informed about current events and emerging developments. Andrea’s work emphasizes useful information, balanced coverage, and stories that matter to everyday readers, making complex topics accessible and relevant to a wide audience.