Research

Research Outline: Exploring Consumer Perceptions and Willingness to Adopt Lab-Grown Meat and Dairy Products.

I'm excited to introduce my research project which explores consumer attitudes toward lab-grown food products under the supervision of Dr Carolyn Auma. Using a detailed questionnaire, I’ll explore public views on health, ethics and affordability to assess their potential in future food systems.

Over the past few years, I’ve developed a strong interest in how alternative food products can address global challenges like food inequality, climate change and population health. One area I find particularly fascinating is the use of tissue samples and lab cultivation to create proteins. While the environmental and ethical benefits of these innovations are promising.

My research will investigate consumer attitudes toward lab-grown meat and dairy products through an online questionnaire. It will focus on key concerns such as health, ethics and cost, and explore how demographic factors may influence perceptions. The goal is to assess how plausible it is for lab-grown foods to enter the mainstream market (specifically UK), and whether consumers are for or against their long-term viability. The findings will offer insights for food businesses, policymakers and sustainability advocates working to promote alternative proteins. This research is not only about understanding consumer behaviour but also about finding a more sustainable food future.

I’m especially excited about combining my interest in sustainable food with the opportunity to conduct independent research for the first time. I look forward to learning from my supervisor and my cohort, building my research skills and contributing to real-world conversations about the future of food.

Please keep an eye on the space for when my questionnaire comes out! You're participation will be very appreciated <3