Figure 7. A conceptual schematic for scaling up cultured fat production via adipocyte aggregation.

As opposed to cell scraping methods with cell culture flasks, large-scale adipose production could utilize different types of bioreactors, including suspension bioreactors (e.g., rotating wall vessel and stirred tank) and adherent bioreactors (e.g., fixed bed, hollow fiber) for cell proliferation and differentiation. The adipocytes are then harvested and aggregated for incorporation into food products. For products requiring structured cultured fat tissues, fat cells are combined with binders or crosslinking ingredients to form a rigid construct. Adipocytes can also be directly included in food products that do not require the cultured fat to be structured.