Acceptance of 3D-Printed Meat Is Rising in Germany

By: Trademagazin editor Date: 2025. 05. 15. 09:58

German consumers are increasingly open to 3D-printed, lab-grown meat alternatives, according to a new survey by digital association Bitkom.

While six years ago merely 13 per cent of people were open to trying such meat, by now the number has risen to 24 per cent.

Younger generations are especially curious: 33 per cent of the 16–29-year-old and 35 per cent of those aged 30–49 said they could imagine eating cultivated meat. Among those aged 50 to 64, only 18% were open to the idea, and just 14% of respondents over 65 expressed interest.

According to 31 per cent of those surveyed, the technology could contribute to more sustainable food production. “3D-printing makes it possible to replicate the look and texture of conventional meat, but with a much smaller environmental footprint,” said Margareta Maier, Digital Farming Specialist at Bitkom.

However, consumers remain reluctant to pay more: only 7% said they would spend more on cultivated meat, while 17% consider 3D-printed food to be a luxury item. Just 15% expect food printers to become a standard appliance in households in the future, mainly due to high costs and the need for specialized ingredients.

Bitkom conducted the representative survey among 1,004 people aged 16 and older across Germany.