CULT Food Science Partnership Supplies Cell-Cultivated Fish for Pet Food Brands

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Press release: CULT Food Science Corp.

CULT Food Science Corp., a pioneer in the investment, development, and commercialization of cellular agriculture technologies and products, recently announced a partnership with Umami Meats to supply cultivated red snapper for its newly launched pet food brands.

In collaboration with Umami Meats, the company is including cell-cultivated fish in its cat treat brand, Marina Cat. Cell-cultivated fish ingredients are produced by taking a sample from a fish and then growing and scaling the cells in large bioreactors. This innovative process allows for the creation of fish-based products such as sushi, sashimi, fish balls, fillets, and now, cat treats, without the need for high-impact ocean harvesting. This will be one of the world’s first cell-cultivated fish pet products brought to market.

Marina Cat is focused on the health benefits of ocean-derived ingredients that promote longevity and immunity. It’s a modern treat for cats, exclusively using cell-based fish and marine ingredients, avoiding ocean-devastating commercial fishing practices.

The availability of Marina Cat treats will be announced in the near future.

Umami Meats, founded by CEO Mihir Pershad, is composed of a team who is developing savory, affordable, and sustainably cultivated seafood that is better for our health and our planet’s oceans.

Umami Meats is pioneering “not caught” seafood. Umami Meats are using modern innovation to develop healthier seafood, void of environmental contaminants, while building on the natural processes of ecosystems. Umami Meats’ practices provide a sustainable alternative to the harmful impact of traditional fishing practices and aquaculture, while staying conscious of animal welfare. Umami Meats values nature as their biggest teacher, and are dedicated to preserving its delicate balance by thinking differently, honoring tradition and protecting the taste of the sea.

Umami Meats is a venture-backed company based in Singapore with investors including CULT Food science, Plug and Play, Better Bite Ventures, and Katapult Ocean.

“We must take steps to preserve ocean food sources and ecosystems for the long term. Fish is heavily used in pet foods and feeds for both land and aquatic animals alike. Being able to replace ocean harvested fish with cell-based sources is a strong solution to relieving the destructive pressures on our aquatic ecosystem. At the same time, it also will let us provide healthier alternatives for our pets,” said Lejjy Gafour, CEO of CULT.

“As a company focused on advancing cellular agriculture, we are thrilled to partner with Umami Meats to create a new line of pet treats that promotes sustainability and ocean welfare. With Marina Cat, we can offer pet owners a unique and healthy option for their feline companions, while simultaneously reducing the negative impact of traditional pet food on our oceans and marine life. We are excited to collaborate with Umami Meats and bring this innovative product to market,” said Joshua Errett, VP product development at CULT.

CULT Food Science Corp. is the first publicly-traded company of its kind in North America, pioneering the investment, development and commercialization of cellular agriculture technologies and products. Through its global portfolio of companies and its venture studio, CULT Food Science provides investors with unprecedented exposure to the most innovative start-up, private or early-stage cultivated meat, cell-based dairy, and other cultured food companies around the world.