“World’s First” Cultivated Meat Farm Launches in the Netherlands in Collaboration With RespectFarms

The project, which is claimed to be a world first, is supported by the European Innovation Partnership for Agricultural Productivity and Sustainability (EIP-Agri) and the Province of Zuid-Holland. The cultivated meat units will become operational in the coming weeks, demonstrating how farmers could integrate the production of cultivated foods into their existing operations.

Through the collaboration, van Leeuwen has reportedly become the first grower worldwide to receive agricultural backing for cultivated meat production. This is thanks to EIP-Agri, which aims to connect growers, researchers, and businesses to accelerate agricultural innovation across Europe. “As a farmer, you have to look ahead, especially these days,” said van Leeuwen. “This is a chance to see whether a new income model can fit alongside what we already do.

Making cultivated meat on the estate makes sense for many reasons. Not trying it would be a missed opportunity.” Delivery of the cultivated meat units. A fair and transparent protein transition RespectFarms is a startup supporting a farm-integrated approach to cultivated meat production, rather than large centralised facilities.

By introducing advanced agritech to holdings, the company hopes to contribute to the development of more resilient food systems and strengthen the economic foundations of rural communities. An Experience Centre is set to open at van Leeuwen’s farm in the spring of 2026, with the aim of fostering public engagement and transparency.

The centre will engage with growers, value chain stakeholders, and policymakers, while inviting local communities and educators to see cultivated meat production for themselves.