First cultivated meat farm launches in Zuid-Holland

On a farm in Zuid-Holland, something unusual has appeared among the dairy cows: the world’s first cultivated meat farm operating on an active agricultural business. RespectFarms installed the system at dairy farmer Corné van Leeuwen’s farm in 2025. The site will be officially opened on June 5, 2026. The idea is simple: show that cultivated meat can function alongside a traditional farm operation — not in a high-tech lab, but right on the farmyard. 

New step for farmers

What makes this project notable is that Van Leeuwen is also the first farmer to receive agricultural innovation funding for cultivated meat production. The support comes through EIP-Agri, the European program that connects farmers and researchers. For the first time, this funding is being directed toward a project that produces meat from cells. Van Leeuwen considers it a logical step to explore. "As a farmer, you have to keep looking ahead, especially in times like these. This is an opportunity to explore whether a new source of income could complement what we already do today." 

RespectFarms is developing a model that doesn’t place cultivated meat in large central facilities but spreads production across multiple farms. A scale that fits the farmyard, the founders say. "We are building a model in which livestock farmers remain at the heart of food production, rather than being replaced by factories," says Ira van Eelen. Co-founders Florentine Zieglowski and Ralf Becks also describe it as a practical route toward real-world application.

Provincial support and a look ahead

The Province of Zuid-Holland is providing financial support. Regional Minister Meindert Stolk highlights that the project shows how agritech and biotech contribute to the protein transition while also creating economic opportunities. The region sees how technology and knowledge developed here can eventually be applied beyond the Netherlands.

Alongside the official opening, the farm will also begin operating as an Experience Centre, aimed at farmers, supply chain partners, and policymakers. A place where visitors can see how cultivated meat production works. “People need to be able to see what is really happening,” says Van Eelen. The centre is intended to make conversations and knowledge-sharing easier.

RespectFarms is continuing its work with technology partners on a decentralized production model. The organization describes cultivated meat as meat grown by developing animal cells in a controlled environment, using less land and water.

Respectfarms.com