US approves genetically modified meat

For the first time, US regulators have labeled genetically engineered beef cattle as low-risk and have allowed such products to be used as food, according to the Center for Agroanalytics.

“The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has called a low risk level when selling products, including food products, from two beef breeds of cattle with a genome-edited and their offspring,” said the Center for Agroanalytics with a link to thebeefsite.com portal.

The FDA has determined that Intentional Genome Modification (IGA) does not raise concerns about the safety of such products. IGA - changes in the genome of an animal, performed using molecular technologies. Genome editing makes it possible to obtain, among other things, short-haired cattle. It is explained that cattle with very short smooth coats are potentially better able to withstand hot weather. The edited genome can be passed on to offspring through conventional breeding.

“Today's decision underscores our commitment to using a science-based method, taking into account large amounts of data and risk assessment. We expect our decision to encourage other developers to promote animal products made with biotechnology,” the US regulator said in a statement.

Among other things, the FDA has designated many other animals as low-risk for the non-food use, and approved applications for five cases of intentional genome modification in goats, chickens, salmon, rabbits and pigs.