AUSTFHU Year book 2022/2023

Aussie ‘Young Influencers’ meet the “Meat Man” in Israel ahead of his Australian Visit

Many people have heard of cultivated meat, but few have actually met one of the world’s most eminent bioengineers who is leading the way with this new concept of meat production.

Last November, a group of prominent Australian social media influencers had the opportunity to meet with Future Meat Technologies’ founder, Professor Ya’akov Nahmias in Israel prior to his visit to Australia. Future Meats is now known as Believermeats and is pioneering the development of ground-breaking technology to produce cultivated meat on a cost effective basis.

The Australian group included Drew Harrisberg

@drews.daily.dose – a health, wellness and fitness influencer who advocates a plant-based diet for those living with Type 1 Diabetes; Katie Williams @katiewilliams – LBGTQ+, fun, fit, former Aussie sprinter, Ninja Warrior and Big Brother contestant with a popular podcast; Reality TV star couple Courtney Stubbs & Jack Millar @_courtneystubbs and @jackomillar – they love to share their lives and experiences with their large following; Alexa Towersey @actionalexa – a personal trainer, mental health advocate, podcaster, and writer with a thirst for action; Shaun Birley @shaunbirley – a fashion model, travel blogger and plant-based foodie who loves to explore the world, find new places and share recommendations along the way; Caroline

Groth @carolinehgroth – a digital content creator with a popular blog of reviews, ‘how-to’ articles, advice, recipes, and shared experiences; and Chad Nathan (group photographer) @gingerwithagopro – a South African content creator who travels the world sharing local stories and insights, an epic cinematographer with big energy and an even bigger heart.

The group was lucky enough to get a tour of the lab, a fascinating place with a remarkable mix of modern technology. They got a glimpse of the award-winning work in action and to see how animal cells are ethically sourced once-off from a donor animal in a pain-free way. The cells are then cultivated in a way that mimics the natural cell growth process and are eventually harvested into recognizable meat products. The process is incredibly efficient and produces a product that is virtually indistinguishable from regular meat – a

true revolution in the space!

In his meeting with the group, Professor Nahmias - who is extremely passionate about his work - spoke enthusiastically about the potential of the company’s technology. He explained that cultivated meat could provide a sustainable, costeffective, and nutritious alternative to traditional meat. He also said that the process could reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve animal welfare, and help feed a growing population.

The visit was an eye-opening experience for the health focussed and environmentally conscious Aussie group. The potential of cultivated meat is astounding, and the technology will revolutionize the way food will be produced in the future.

The meeting with Professor Nahmias was facilitated by the Australian Friends of the Hebrew University.