Montana House Ag committee hears bill to ban sale of cell-cultured (lab-grown) meat; no vote taken

The Montana House Agriculture Committee on Thursday heard testimony on House Bill 401, introduced by Representative Mitchell, an act that would prohibit the manufacture, sale, possession or offering for sale of cell‑cultured edible products (commonly called lab‑grown meat). The committee closed the hearing without taking a final vote.

Supporters told the committee the bill aims to protect Montana’s ranching and farming economy and guard against uncertain long‑term health effects of cell‑cultured meat. Representative Mitchell, the bill sponsor, told the committee the bill "would follow in line with other states and countries who have banned lab grown meat due to the unknown health effects and to protect traditional food traditions, farmers and ranchers, and ultimately public health." He said the proposal is limited to cell‑cultured meat and does not target plant‑based products.

Proponents included farm and ranch organizations and property owner groups. Karli Johnson of the Montana…