The US Department of Agriculture has approved the sale of chicken made from animal cells, allowing two California companies to offer lab-grown meat to restaurant tables and eventually, supermarket shelves. This marks the first time that U.S. regulators have approved the sale of such products, and could have a major impact on the food industry by reducing the environmental impact of raising animals for food and providing an alternative for those who wish to avoid animal products. The approval is a major milestone in the development of lab-grown meats, and more companies are expected to follow suit in the near future.