Jeff Bezos and his fiancée Lauren Sanchez relocated to Florida and recently revealed their commitment to investing $60 million in sustainable protein, specifically focusing on "cultivated meats." 

However, their announcement coincided with Governor Ron DeSantis' decision to prohibit the sale of lab-grown meat in the Sunshine State.

Ron DeSantis Enacts Law Against Lab-Grown Meat

On May 1, DeSantis signed SB 1084 into effect, presenting it as a measure to counter the World Economic Forum's agenda of promoting lab-grown meat and insects as a viable protein source. 

The New York Post reported that the ban, which does not apply to Impossible meat made from plant-based ingredients, is intended to safeguard cattle ranchers and maintain the integrity of American agriculture, according to DeSantis.

However, there are several reasons why critics consider the move misguided. To begin with, the initial regulatory approvals for cultivated meat in the US were granted less than a year ago.

Lab-grown meat is being hailed by many meat-alternative companies along with supporters as a potential solution to the environmental and ethical issues associated with traditional mass-production of meat. 

Based on a recent analysis, the production cost of lab-grown meat is currently more than three times higher than that of natural beef.

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Bezos Earth Fund Backs Sustainable Protein Ventures

DeSantis said Florida is taking a stand against what he perceives as a global agenda to promote lab-grown meat or insect consumption, which he views as a means of exerting control. 

The decision was made approximately one month after the Bezos Earth Fund, led by the Amazon founder and Sanchez, revealed a significant investment in sustainable protein, which includes plant-based, fermented, and cultivated meats. 

This investment is part of the organization's broader commitment of $1 billion to enhance food production.

Florida has a thriving beef industry. In 2024, the state achieved a notable ranking of ninth for beef cattle production, with an impressive total of 862,000.  

In accordance with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the sales of beef cattle and breeding stock have a significant economic impact, generating over $900 million annually.

DeSantis mocked liberals who support "fake meat" as a solution to climate change and criticized global leaders like those at The World Economic Forum, who have suggested insects as a viable source of protein (which are considered delicacies in some cultures).

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