Abstract Microbial protein feed (MPF), produced through precision fermentation, offers a promising pathway toward a more sustainable agri-food sector by reducing reliance on conventional feed sources. This emerging cellular technology can help conserve natural resources, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and address the growing global demand for protein alternatives. Similar to other biotechnology innovations, the realization of MPF’s potential benefits dependents heavily on a supportive regulatory environment. This study examines the regulatory frameworks of the United States, the European Union, China, and Australia to assess how pre-market regulations shape the development of MPF and to identify specific legal challenges faced by manufacturers. Across these jurisdictions, there are no specific laws or regulations for MPF products. Their oversight falls under general feed and GMO-related legislation, creating regulatory gaps, ambiguity in product assessments, and procedural inefficiencies that are further exacerbated by overlapping regulatory authorities and generic labeling requirements. Such challenges not only slow the commercialization of MPF products but also impede broader efforts to develop more sustainable agri-food systems. Our analysis indicates that targeted regulatory reforms are needed to streamline pre-market approval pathways and improve risk assessment standards. By adopting dedicated regulatory approaches and strengthening pre-market consultation mechanisms with developers, these jurisdictions will be better positioned to advance environmentally responsible protein production and accelerate the transition to a more sustainable agri-food sector.
Wang et al. (2026) studied this question.