Synthetic meat: innovation and challenges in science education

Abstract

This paper addresses synthetic meat as a Socio-Scientific Issue (SSI) and explores how it can be introduced in the classroom from this perspective. It examines the rationale for defining it as an SSI, highlighting its potential contributions to sustainability, food security, and animal welfare, while also acknowledging associated challenges such as high production costs and negative consumer perceptions. The paper underscores the importance of fostering informed and reflective debate on synthetic meat, considering socioscientific, environmental, cultural, and ethical dimensions. Additionally, it proposes incorporating this topic into education through strategies such as the “Six Thinking Hats,” role-playing, and guiding questions, with the aim of developing students’ critical thinking and communication skills. The paper emphasizes the need to consider both the benefits and drawbacks of synthetic meat, as well as the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in this emerging field.