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Scientists who study food and future tech say the traditional Christmas feast could look very different soon. A team at UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) has sketched a vision for a future Christmas dinner. Their menu includes pigs in blankets from seaweed-fed meat, turkey made with alternative proteins, dishes built around pea cheese, and so-called super potatoes.
Pigs in Blankets
Pigs in blankets are a traditional favorite on British Christmas tables. Soon, the meat for them could come from animals fed seaweed.
Researchers say meat from animals fed aquatic plants rich in iodine and selenium could be more nutritious and healthier.
Turkey
The holiday centerpiece—the turkey and its sides—could get a rethink. Scientists say turkey meat could soon be grown in laboratory conditions.
That technology could reduce demand for live turkeys, especially during the holiday season. It could also supply Christmas dinners with environmentally friendly, affordable, nutritious alternative proteins. These alternatives are being developed by researchers from the National Centre for Alternative Protein Innovation in Leeds, the Cell AgriTech Production Centre in Bath, and the Microbiology and Engineering Centre at UKRI, Imperial College.
Potato Dishes
Researchers also plan so-called super potatoes based on advances in engineering biology. Scientists are already developing improved potato varieties that are healthier and more resistant to damage. Those potatoes also cook significantly faster.
Pea Cheese
Researchers at the University of Nottingham have turned yellow British peas into an eco-friendly, plant-based cheese using advanced technologies.
This alternative has properties similar to dairy cheese but without the high fat content. The result is a healthy, tasty vegan cheese that can be used to make festive treats.
Stella Pease, a senior manager at UKRI, noted, “Food lies at the heart of many cultures; it brings people together to share traditions.” And it also gives us strength and supports our health.
