KFC tests 3D-printed CHICKEN NUGGETS and could even produce drumsticks with bones if tech improves

KFC has tested 3D-printing chicken nuggets and could even go on to produce wings and drumsticks with bones inside if the technology improves.

The fast-food chain announced its partnership with a Russian biotech research firm on Thursday in the hope of creating world’s first laboratory-produced meat.

It comes amid a global race to find safe and authentic-tasting meat alternatives. 

Russia’s 3D Bioprinting Solutions company, which was founded by the private medical firm Invitro, is set to use chicken cells and plant material to ‘reproduce the taste and texture of chicken meat almost without involving animals’.

KFC will then provide its signature breading and spices before the ingredients are ‘printed’ into chicken nuggets.

It was not yet clear when the manufactured nuggets will be available to the public. 

The fast-food chain announced its partnership with a Russian biotech research firm on Thursday in the hope of creating world’s first laboratory-produced meat (stock image)

Raisa Polyakova, KFC Russia’s General Manager, said in a press release that it was ‘working to make it available to thousands of people in Russia and, if possible, around the world’.

Adding: ‘Receiving a final product for testing is already planned for the fall of 2020 in Moscow.’ 

KFC Russia’s Communications Director Irina Gushchina told the Moscow Times that it was not yet possible to reproduce bones inside the meat.

But it is hoped that this would be achievable if the technology improves. 

The move comes as consumers seek out more ethically and environmentally sourced produce amid climate change concerns.