Take action: BAN all Lab-Grown Meat in FLORIDA!

On June 24, 2023, Lab-grown meat was given the green light for sale in the United States. Two companies, Upside Foods, and Good Meat, have announced that they have received approval from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) to produce their cell-based proteins, which they refer to as “cultivated chicken.”
We want to urge Governor DeSantis to ban lab grown meats for all consumption in Florida.
It may be possible to agree that if restaurants or supermarkets sell those products, this needs to be disclosed clearly to the consumer! We have the right to know what we are consuming and select restaurants accordingly. The long-term health impacts of consuming lab-grown meat are still largely unknown.

Title: Petition to Governor DeSantis: Ban Lab-Grown Meat in Florida

Dear Governor DeSantis,

We, the undersigned residents of Florida, write this petition to urge you to take immediate action to ban the production, sale, and consumption of lab-grown meat within our state. As concerned citizens, we believe that the introduction of lab-grown meat poses significant risks to our health, economy, environment, and overall food industry.

Lab-grown meat, also known as cultured or synthetic meat, is a product derived from animal cells grown in a laboratory setting. While some proponents argue that it offers a solution to ethical concerns surrounding animal cruelty, we firmly believe that the potential negative consequences far outweigh any perceived benefits. Below, we outline the reasons we urge you to implement a ban on lab-grown meat in Florida:

1. Health Risks: The long-term health impacts of consuming lab-grown meat are still largely unknown. Without proper research and thorough testing, it is premature to introduce this technology into our food supply. We must prioritize the health and well-being of Floridians by ensuring that food products undergo rigorous safety assessments before being made available.

2. Economic Impact: Florida's economy heavily relies on its robust agricultural industry, which includes livestock farming and the production of traditional meat products. The introduction of lab-grown meat threatens the livelihoods of countless farmers, ranchers, and workers involved in this sector. We must support local farmers and protect our economy from potential disruptions caused by a shift towards lab-grown alternatives.

3. Environmental Concerns: Livestock farming plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by providing natural fertilizers, managing land, and contributing to biodiversity. The mass production of lab-grown meat would reduce the need for traditional farming practices, leading to the decline of rural communities and detrimental effects on our environment. Preserving Florida's natural resources and supporting sustainable agricultural practices should be our priorities.

4. Consumer Choice and Transparency: Floridians have the right to make informed choices about the food they consume. With lab-grown meat, there is a lack of transparency regarding its production processes, potential additives, and long-term health effects. We believe that consumers have the right to know the origin and nature of the food they purchase, and the introduction of lab-grown meat compromises this fundamental right.

We, the undersigned, respectfully request that you prioritize the health, prosperity, and environmental sustainability of Florida by issuing an executive order to ban the production, sale, and consumption of lab-grown meat within our state. By taking this action, you would demonstrate your commitment to protecting the interests of Florida's citizens, farmers, and the overall food industry.

Thank you for considering our petition and for your dedication to serving the people of Florida.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]
[City, State]
[Signature]