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SB 931

Food and Food Products - As enacted, prohibits labeling a cell-cultured food product as meat or a meat food product. - Amends TCA Title 4; Title 39; Title 40; Title 43; Title 44; Title 47 and Title 53.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Paul Rose

Tennessee law bans labeling cell-cultured meat as "meat," taking effect July 1, 2025, creating separate regulatory categories for lab-grown and conventionally raised animal products.

Pub. Ch. 450
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Bill Summary · SB 931

Legislative bill overview

SB 931 prohibits cell-cultured meat products from being labeled as "meat" or "meat food product" in Tennessee. The law, which became effective July 1, 2025, amends multiple sections of Tennessee code governing food labeling and regulation. This creates a legal distinction between conventionally raised animal meat and laboratory-grown meat products.

Why is this important

This legislation affects how consumers can identify and purchase meat alternatives, potentially influencing their purchasing decisions and market competition. It also reflects broader debates about food innovation, consumer protection, and agricultural industry protection happening across multiple states simultaneously. The labeling restriction could significantly impact the commercial viability of cell-cultured meat companies seeking to enter the Tennessee market.

Potential points of contention

  • Consumer information vs. marketing impact: Restricting "meat" labeling prevents consumers from easily identifying the product type while potentially disadvantaging cell-cultured companies, raising questions about whether this primarily serves consumer protection or industry protection
  • Interstate commerce concerns: Tennessee's labeling restrictions may conflict with federal regulations and interstate commerce, creating legal ambiguity for national food producers
  • Technology neutrality: Critics argue the law prejudges an emerging technology rather than letting market competition and safety standards determine success, while supporters contend consumers deserve clear product differentiation

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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