Senator Rich Draheim (R–Madison Lake) on Wednesday introduced Senate File 239, legislation requiring clear and prominent labeling on cell-cultured (lab-grown) meat and poultry products. The bill aims to enhance consumer transparency by helping consumers distinguish between farm-raised products and those manufactured in a lab.

“It’s important that we have labeling on cell-cultured meat so we understand what we’re feeding our families,” said Sen. Draheim. “I’m all in favor of new and exciting products, I just want to know what they are. This bill would require labeling to plainly state to the consumer if the food contains cell-grown ingredients.”

Hannah Bernhardt, who runs Medicine Creek Farm in Finlayson and serves as President of the Minnesota Farmers Union, Pine County Chapter, testified in support of the bill.

“My business selling beef, lamb, and pork relies on direct relationships with my customers. I take great effort in being transparent and accountable in the way I raise my livestock,” said Bernhardt. “To ensure a level playing field, I think we should strive for that transparency across our agricultural markets. Clear, informative labeling is the least we can do to provide that to customers.”

Hunter Pederson of the Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation voiced his support for the bill at the hearing.

“We support truthful, transparent labeling of lab-grown products so that consumers can make informed decisions,” said Pederson. “Our farmers and ranchers work diligently everyday raising and producing high-quality, nutritious food for our communities. Livestock producers don’t fear competition. But we do need to have a level playing field for them.”

The bill was heard in the Senate Agriculture, Veterans, Broadband, and Rural Development Committee on March 11, 2026. It advanced out of committee and was referred to the Senate floor.