Sustainable growth from cellular agriculture value chains: action plan for Finland
Cellular agriculture offers a pathway to a sustainable, modern and competitive Finnish food system. This white paper by VTT, Luke and University of Helsinki analyses the current status of cellular agriculture in Finland and globally and outlines how Finland can leverage it to build a circular-economy food system while unlocking new economic and export opportunities.
Content summary
This white paper describes what cellular agriculture is, examines its current state and operating environment in Finland and global markets and explores how its methods can complement plant- and animal-based production while supporting the circular economy through the use of side streams.
The report presents a 2040 vision for a food system that is locally regenerative, environmentally sustainable, socially equal and economically viable. It quantifies the growth and export potential of cellular agriculture - including an estimated export potential of 500–1000 M€ by 2035 - and defines eight action steps calling for rapid decisions and concrete measures from decision makers and stakeholders.
Contents:
- What is cellular agriculture?
- The Finnish food system and cellular agriculture
- Towards the future: cellular agriculture as part of the national food system
- Growth and export potential of cellular agriculture
- Action steps for Finnish decision makers and the stakeholder network
Key findings
- Cellular agriculture can help transform Finland’s food system toward greater sustainability and resilience.
- Finland has strong advantages, such as biomass side streams and biotechnology expertise, to support its development.
- The sector has major export potential, estimated at 500–1000 M€ by 2035.
- Rapid policy and investment actions are needed to unlock growth and enable scale-up.
- Cellular agriculture can improve food security and sustainability through efficient resource use.
Who is this for?
This white paper is designed for professionals and decision makers shaping Finland’s food system and bioeconomy across public, private and research sectors.
- Policymakers and public authorities
- Food and bioeconomy leaders
- Investors and financiers
- Industry stakeholders in agriculture, food and forestry
- Researchers and educators
- Anyone working on the future of Finland’s food system
Authors
Anu Seisto, Research Team Leader, VTT
Anneli Ritala, Principal Scientist, VTT
Arho Suominen, Research Professor, VTT
Emilia Nordlund, Research Manager, VTT
Marjatta Vahvaselkä, Senior Scientist, Luke
Minna Kahala, Senior Scientist, Luke
Anu Kaukovirta, Vice President, Luke
Mari Sandell, Professor, University of Helsinki
FAQ
Why is cellular agriculture important for Finland?
It offers a new way to produce food that supports a sustainable and profitable food system while making better use of side streams and strengthening food security.
What does the white paper focus on?
It explains what cellular agriculture is, reviews the situation in Finland and internationally, presents a 2040 vision for Finland’s food system and outlines eight action steps to realise the opportunity.
Who should read this?
Decision makers in government, business and research, as well as investors and other stakeholders shaping Finland’s future food system.
How large is the growth and export potential?
The white paper estimates an export potential of 500–1000 million euros by 2035, with additional opportunities in technology and expertise exports.
How can this white paper support decision making?
It provides a shared knowledge base and concrete action steps that help plan regulation, investments and collaboration around cellular agriculture in Finland.