This work navigates some of the challenges in optimizing cell culture media for cultivated meat production, aiming to help overcome barriers hindering large-scale commercialization. Beginning with a review of the current state of the science of animal cell culture media, it draws concepts from conventional biomedical applications and microbial fermentation processes for application to cultivated meat. The subsequent experimental studies delve into the intricacies of tailoring media for diverse cell types, exploring the impact of serum-free culture on cellular nutrient requirements, and assessing plant and yeast hydrolysates as alternative nitrogen sources for scalable and cost-effective media formulations. Collectively, the research advocates for tailored and rigorous “white box” media optimization approaches to be used alongside innovative and efficient black box methods. It emphasizes the continued need for nuanced strategies to optimize media for varied cell types, reconcile challenges transitioning to animal component-free formulations, and identify alternative nutrient sources for economically viable cultivated meat production
