# Exploring the Parallels Between Kerosene and Cultivated Meat
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Introduction
Before diving into the topic, I must credit Paul Shapiro’s article as the foundation for my insights regarding the connections among whaling, kerosene, and alternative proteins.
The history of whale hunting and animal agriculture showcases striking similarities. Both were once deemed essential for economic growth, yet are increasingly recognized as unsustainable and unethical. In the 19th century, whale oil was a prized commodity, utilized for lighting and in products like spermaceti wax. This booming industry provided numerous jobs. Fast forward to the 21st century, and whaling has become a relic of the past.
The Shift: How Kerosene Changed the Game
The advent of kerosene as a lighting and fuel source drastically diminished the need for whale oil. Kerosene, or paraffin oil, is a clear liquid derived from petroleum, first isolated by Abraham Gesner in 1853. He discovered that coal distillation could yield a more cost-effective and efficient fuel compared to whale oil.
As kerosene gained popularity for lighting and heating, it quickly overshadowed whale oil. Kerosene lamps and stoves became the preferred choice due to their efficiency and affordability. The subsequent decline in whale oil demand led to a significant drop in whale hunting. As kerosene use spread, the price of whale oil plummeted, making whaling less profitable. Growing public awareness about the ethics of whaling further contributed to the industry's decline.
By the early 20th century, kerosene had largely supplanted whale oil in the marketplace. This shift not only curtailed whale hunting but also played a pivotal role in preserving whale populations, which were on the verge of extinction due to excessive hunting.
Environmental Implications of Animal Agriculture
In a similar vein, contemporary society grapples with sustainability issues tied to animal agriculture. This practice is not only detrimental to the environment but also inefficient in terms of food production. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), livestock farming generates more greenhouse gases than the entire global transportation sector. Despite comprising roughly 17% of human food consumption, animal agriculture occupies 77% of agricultural land worldwide. It also consumes a significant portion of global agricultural water, with the majority directed toward animal feed cultivation.
Cultivated Meat: A Sustainable Alternative
Cultivated meat, often referred to as lab-grown or cell-based meat, is created by growing animal cells in a controlled environment, rather than from entire animals. This method involves obtaining a small sample of cells from an animal, which is then used to produce muscle tissue in a bioreactor. The resulting product is biologically identical to conventional meat.
The production of cultivated meat addresses the inhumane practices of factory farming, along with the high greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation associated with it. This innovative approach offers a more ethical and sustainable method for producing the meat many people enjoy, providing real meat rather than a mere substitute. Presently, over 100 companies globally are developing cultivated meat products, including beef, chicken, duck, and liver, all of which mimic the taste and texture of traditional meat. While commercial sales of cultivated meat are currently limited to Singapore, positive developments are underway, such as Upside Foods’ lab-grown chicken recently passing the initial assessment by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Conclusion: The Future of Meat Production
The parallels between the whaling industry and animal agriculture are striking. Both were once seen as essential for economic progress, yet are now viewed as unsustainable and unethical. Technological advancements are paving the way for solutions, much like kerosene did for whaling. The cultivated meat revolution represents a promising future for meat production, providing a more humane and sustainable option for consumers.
References
- Will Factory Farming Go the Way of the Whaling Ship?
- The Rise of Plant-Based Meat and Its Environmental Impact
- The Future of Protein: A Look at 3 Alternative Protein Sources
- How Alternative Proteins Can Save The Planet from Global Warming