The bill, S.B. No. 261, introduces a prohibition on the manufacture, processing, possession, distribution, offer for sale, and sale of cell-cultured protein in Texas. It defines "cell-cultured protein" as a food product derived from harvesting animal cells and artificially replicating those cells in a growth medium to produce tissue. The bill amends the Health and Safety Code by adding this definition and includes a new section that explicitly prohibits any activities related to cell-cultured protein. Additionally, it amends existing provisions regarding adulterated food to include cell-cultured protein as a factor that can render food adulterated.

The bill also mandates that the executive commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission adopt necessary rules to implement these changes, with the law set to take effect on September 1, 2025. The legislation aims to regulate the food industry in Texas by establishing clear guidelines and restrictions concerning cell-cultured protein, reflecting a growing concern over food safety and consumer health.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 431.002, Health and Safety Code 431.021, Health and Safety Code 431.081 (Health and Safety Code 431)