#Japan #Tokyo #Food Tech Council #cell-based foods #JACA

New Communication Policy for Cell-Based Foods

The Food Tech Council's Cell Agriculture Working Team, also known as the Cell Agriculture WT, has announced the implementation of a communication policy concerning cell-based foods. This new policy was established on March 10, 2026, and aims to enhance the quality and consistency of external communication within the cell-based food sector.

The development of this policy was informed by the Cell Agriculture WT’s understanding of the communication environment as of February 24, 2026. This effort included a draft circulated on January 29, 2026, and a feedback collection period that extended until February 24, 2026. Notably, on February 20, a briefing was conducted for all members of the Japan Cell Agriculture Association (JACA), and a discussion session took place on February 24, during which input from participants was integrated into the policy.

Throughout January and February, individual discussions were held with representatives from 13 food companies and cell-based food developers, as well as three academics, focusing on enhancing stakeholder engagement and communication strategies.

The Cell Agriculture WT recognizes that the methods and approaches to communication in this field must continue to adapt in response to evolving policies, societal discussions, environmental changes, and technological advancements. Thus, this policy is released as a product of the Cell Agriculture WT and will be shared with relevant organizations and companies in the industry. Furthermore, the group plans to enhance its dissemination of information through the establishment of definitions, an FAQ collection, and expanded explanatory content.

Key Points of the Communication Policy

In promoting effective external communication about cell-based foods, the Cell Agriculture WT will adhere to the guidelines set forth in this policy, aiming to foster accurate understanding of the industry’s realities. Here are the recommended expressions and practices outlined in the policy:

Recommended Expressions

1. 'Cell-Based Foods': These terms reflect scientific and neutral descriptions of the products. They minimize confusion among consumers compared to terms like 'cultured' or 'cell culture'. Consistency in naming is crucial; stakeholders should note, for instance, “We refer to these as cell-based foods.”
2. 'Cell-Based': This term is particularly useful as it invites comparisons to plant-based and animal-based foods and assists in conceptual organization.
3. Describing Cell-Based Foods as 'Complementary' or 'Diverse': Terms like “complementary protein sources” or “ensuring diverse protein supply” highlight that cell-based foods do not replace traditional meat, but rather, serve as a viable alternative to respond to supply challenges.
4. Highlighting Resource Efficiency: Expressions framing the production methods with the expectation of higher future resource efficiency align with growing global population demands and the increasing need for stable protein supplies.
5. Clarifying Proximity to Processed Foods: To avoid misunderstandings, it is advised to state, “This is a processed food made from cell-based sources combined with other ingredients.”
6. Promoting Cultural Food Practices: Actively introduce projects like cell-based eel or tuna, connecting with efforts to maintain traditional cuisines amid species decline.
7. Leveraging Japan's Strengths: Whenever applicable, communicate the unique technological strengths Japan possesses in the cell-based food sector.

Expressions to Avoid

The policy outlines specific terms and phrases to avoid in communication to mitigate misunderstandings and opposition from stakeholders in traditional agriculture:
1. 'Alternative': This term can imply a replacement for conventional meat and may provoke resistance.
2. 'Reproduce' or 'Real': These phrases might suggest an assurance of identity with traditional products, leading to misrepresentation.
3. Technical Jargon like 'Cultured Meat': Such terms can create confusion and rifts with existing industries.
4. Phrases Implied Negative Comparisons: Avoid terms like 'clean meat' or 'lab meat,' which could alienate consumers and create conflict with existing products.

In using specific informative phrases, the policy emphasizes maintaining respect for existing agricultural communities while transparently discussing the innovations of the cell-based food sector. The ongoing discourse surrounding cell-based food production and its social perception will be continuously evaluated and updated as necessary.

For more information and to read the complete communication policy, please visit the Japan Cell Agriculture Association's website. Address any inquiries through their contact page: Inquiries.