3D Printed Fish: Steakholder Foods Unveils Plant-Based Shrimp

Steakholder Foods marks a pivotal moment in the seafood industry with its latest innovation: 3D printed fish in the form of plant-based shrimp. This breakthrough, developed by a leader in cultivated meat and 3D bioprinting technology, is set to transform the $60 billion shrimp market. The company’s use of cutting-edge technology not only showcases a technological triumph but also positions it as a major disruptor in the seafood sector.

“By unveiling a second new species of plant-based, 3D-printed seafood this month, we expect to position Steakholder Foods to sell and deliver its first DropJet printer in 2024, offering partners and customers a unique opportunity to benefit from the expanding global seafood market, while making the right kind of impact on the environment,” said Arik Kaufman, CEO of Steakholder Foods, in a press release.

Crafting the Perfect Plant-Based Shrimp

Steakholder Foods has leveraged its unique DropJet printer, a marvel in 3D printing technology, specifically designed for creating fish and seafood products. The plant-based shrimp are produced using a specialized, shrimp-flavored ink, created by the company’s expert food technology team. This innovation accurately emulates the taste and texture of traditional shrimp, offering an unmatched culinary experience.

Related: Steakholder Foods is 3D Bioprinting Steak, Among Other Meats

The significance of this technology is immense. Considering the massive global shrimp harvest — over 7.6 million tons in 2023 — Steakholder Foods’ approach is timely and vital. The company’s advanced printing solution aims to meet the soaring demand with a focus on high-volume, efficient and sustainable production. This method represents a major step forward in addressing global challenges such as food security, carbon footprint reduction and the conservation of crucial resources like water and land.

Steakholder Foods and Other Players in the Market

Headquartered in Rehovot, Israel, Steakholder Foods has been a frontrunner in the cultured meat revolution since 2019. The company’s mission is deeply rooted in providing slaughter-free cellular agriculture meat products, including beef and seafood. Aligning with the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals, Steakholder Foods is committed to a more sustainable and responsible global food system, offering viable alternatives to traditional farming and fishing methods.

But in the expanding realm of 3D printed fish, Steakholder Foods faces increasing competition. Several companies, including Plantish and Wildtype, are delving into lab-grown seafood, focusing on species like tuna and salmon. New Wave Foods also offers plant-based shrimp, but Steakholder Foods distinguishes itself with its focus on 3D bioprinting technology, tapping into a significant market niche.

The competition extends beyond producing a realistic seafood alternative. It encompasses the challenge of achieving sustainability, scalability and cost-effectiveness. As the industry evolves, companies strive to create products that not only appeal to seafood enthusiasts but also address environmental and ethical concerns associated with traditional seafood.

Steakholder Foods’ introduction of plant-based, 3D printed shrimp is a major leap in alternative seafood. This innovation is set to make a substantial impact on the global market, providing a sustainable, ethical and delicious option compared to traditional shrimp. With the anticipated release of the first DropJet printer in 2024, the future of seafood consumption appears more sustainable and promising.