Government proposals, approved by ministers last month, would look to ban the production and placing on the Italian market of foods derived from animal cells without slaughtering the animal.

Along with cell-based fish and synthetic milk, the draft legislation highlights cultured meat, which the document states is the “result of a cell cultivation process”.

The law also proposes a fine of €10,000 to €60,000 for any infringement of the intended ban.

“Laboratory products in our opinion do not guarantee quality, well-being and the protection of our culture, our tradition," said minister Francesco Lollobrigida, a senior member of prime minister Giorgia Melonis Brothers of Italy party.

“The ban is based on the principle of caution,” added health minister Orazio Schillaci. “This is very important because currently there is no scientific evidence about possible harmful effects from consumption of synthetic foods.

“I think it is also important to reiterate the preservation of the agri-food heritage of our nation.”

Coldiretti: ‘Synthetic food limits choice and supply’

Agriculture lobby Coldiretti welcomed the move against "synthetic food", with the group’s president Asti Marco Reggio saying it “limits the freedom of consumers, homogenises food choices, and monopolizes supply”.

“It does not help to pursue social justice objectives,” he added, “as it is produced on the basis of patents and technologies with high entry and development costs.

“In the hands of a few large multinational investors it can have dangerous socio-economic impacts.”