In a global first, cultivated meat production is being integrated into a working farm in Zuid-Holland, the Netherlands. In November, a farm-scale cultivated meat unit was installed on Corné van Leeuwen’s dairy farm, creating a pioneering pilot to explore how cellular agriculture can complement traditional farming.

Adding to this historic achievement, van Leeuwen became the first farmer to receive EIP-Agri funding for cultivated meat production, signalling a new era of agricultural innovation backed by public investment.

This groundbreaking initiative, led by RESPECTFarms in collaboration with van Leeuwen, marks a major step toward diversifying protein sources and accelerating the transition to sustainable food systems. RESPECTFarms is focused on developing a scalable, farmer-led model that supports climate goals, biodiversity, and rural livelihoods.

We’re building a model where livestock farmers remain at the centre of food production, not replaced by factories,

says Ira van Eelen, co-founder of RESPECTFarms.

The project is supported by EIP-Agri, the EU framework for agricultural innovation, and the Province of Zuid-Holland.

This initiative shows how agritech and biotech can drive the protein transition while creating economic opportunities,

says Meindert Stolk, Regional Minister for Economy and Innovation.

Looking ahead, an Experience Centre will open on the farm in Spring 2026, welcoming farmers, policymakers, and stakeholders to learn about cultivated meat and engage in shaping the future of food.

World’s first cultivated meat farm launches in the Netherlands