A recent report from VTT Technical Research Center of Finland, in collaboration with the Natural Resources Institute Finland and the University of Helsinki, outlines a strategic roadmap aimed at enhancing Finland's cellular agriculture sector.

The findings, commissioned by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and Business Finland, highlight eight critical measures needed to modernise the food system and capitalise on the burgeoning potential of cellular agriculture.

Cellular agriculture, which uses cell cultures – including microbial, algae, plant, insect, and animal cells– represents a transformative approach to food production. This method not only promises to create sustainable food systems but also offers a viable solution to the challenges posed by climate change, particularly in the cultivation of traditional crops like coffee and cocoa.

Investment and regulatory reform needed

The report underscores the urgency of significant investments in production-scale infrastructure and calls for expedited EU regulatory processes.

State Secretary Päivi Nerg noted the need for a cohesive strategy that integrates both modern and traditional agricultural practices, stating: "The future food system will be based on the interplay between modern agriculture and cellular agriculture, utilising circular economy solutions".

She continued: "This development brings many new business opportunities for Finland and the food system actors. We must identify the necessary change paths and ensure that measures consider the entire chain, from farmers to consumers and other stakeholders."

With a market forecast suggesting an export potential of €500-€1,000 million by 2035, the report indicates that Finland stands to gain substantially from investments in this sector. However, experts warn that the current lack of capital hampers growth opportunities.

Emilia Nordlund, the study's lead researcher, added: "One of Finland's biggest challenges currently is the lack of capital, which limits the growth opportunities of cellular agriculture. Building production facilities requires large investments, and success will not come without government support to accelerate investments and realise venture capital investments."

Recommendations for policymakers

The report presents eight actionable recommendations designed to bolster cellular agriculture in Finland:

• Accelerate infrastructure investments: Develop an action plan to attract venture capital and international investments in production facilities.

  
  

• Streamline EU regulatory processes: Establish a dedicated office in Finland to provide support for novel food processes and advocate for regulatory reforms at the EU level.

  
  

• Launch a €100 million RDI programme: Initiate a five-year research, development and innovation programme aimed at creating sustainable food solutions.

  
  

• Establish a ministry of future food: Form a cross-ministerial organisation to oversee the development of the future food system and support collaborative initiatives.

  
  

• Expand educational programmes: Develop training programmes to meet the sector's growing demand for skilled professionals in cellular agriculture and related fields.

  
  

• Enhance consumer communication: Promote awareness of cellular agriculture innovations through public tastings and co-development initiatives.

  
  

• Integrate primary production: Standardise the production and quality of feedstocks to create new business opportunities for primary producers.

  
  

• Target export support functions: Consider all aspects of exports, including domestic production and technology licensing, to maximise growth potential.

Finland's competitive advantages

Finland's unique resources, including abundant carbohydrate-rich side streams such as straw and wood chips, which could be used as feedstocks for cellular agriculture. Using these materials could significantly enhance protein production capabilities, addressing both domestic needs and export opportunities.

As the report highlights, Finland's expertise in industrial biotechnology and renewable energy infrastructure provides a competitive edge. However, stakeholders are urged to act swiftly to harness these advantages and realise the predicted growth opportunities.

*The study was conducted by mapping the current state of cellular agriculture and the development of the operating environment in Finland and international markets. Additionally, expert knowledge was gathered through stakeholder interviews and vision workshops.