Move over, plant-based beef: Hello, beef-infused rice
South Korean Researchers Develop Hybrid Rice as a Meat Alternative #
A team of researchers from South Korea has developed a new type of rice that contains cow muscle and fat cells. The rice, which is pink in color, is seen as a potential cheaper and more sustainable alternative to meat. The researchers coat the rice in fish gelatin, which helps the meat cells adhere to the grains. The cells then grow on and inside the rice grains, resulting in a product with a different texture and flavor compared to traditional rice. The beef rice is firmer and higher in protein and fat. The researchers believe this could help address issues such as climate change and resource scarcity. Despite previous attempts with soybeans, this method has proven more successful. The researchers aim to further develop the process to enhance nutritional value, texture, and taste. If successful, the meat-replacement rice could be commercialized and made accessible for various applications, including food relief and military rations.