Progressives Propose Labeling Cultivated Meat in Nebraska Instead of Banning It

Nebraska lawmakers are once again debating whether to ban lab-grown meat produced from animal cells. Legislative Bill 246, introduced by State Senator Barry DeKay of Niobrara, would prohibit the sale of cultivated meat in the state. The bill passed its first round of debate with strong support and continued to gain momentum during the second round on Thursday. However, a final vote was not held, and discussions will resume next Tuesday.

DeKay, who proposed the bill on behalf of Governor Jim Pillen, described cultivated meat as a threat to traditional animal agriculture and warned it could eventually lead to the decline of animal husbandry in the United States. Pillen has made banning lab-grown meat a top priority this legislative session.

Opponents of the ban, including several progressive senators, argue instead for stricter labeling requirements. Senator Danielle Conrad of Lincoln supported an alternative approach that would require clear labels distinguishing cultivated meat from traditional animal products. She noted this would promote consumer awareness and align with recommendations from Nebraska’s agriculture leaders. In fact, the Nebraska Cattlemen opposed a full ban on cultivated meat, preferring labeling regulations over outright prohibition.

Senator Bob Andersen of Omaha had introduced a separate bill, LB 658, that would prevent plant-based, insect-based, and lab-grown proteins from being labeled with animal terms like “beef” or “chicken.” That bill, though advanced by the Agriculture Committee, has not yet been debated on the floor.

Supporters of the ban, including Senator Wendy DeBoer of Bennington, raised concerns about the safety of lab-grown meat, although DeBoer also cautioned against government overreach.

Lab-grown meat is not currently sold in U.S. grocery stores, though some products have been served in restaurants on a limited basis. DeKay emphasized that the proposed ban would be proactive, and could be lifted in the future if the safety of cultivated meat is conclusively proven through research.

The bill will face another vote Tuesday. If approved, it must pass a final round before heading to the governor’s desk.