Press release 05/2009
RIKILT- Institute of Food Safety, part of Wageningen UR has published a report claiming that gene technology in livestock is now at an advanced stage. In the report entitled ‘Gene technology in livestock’, the researchers give an overview of the technology that can already be applied to livestock. To ensure sound monitoring of this rapidly-developing technology, the report argues the case for developing detection methods that can be used to identify genetically modified animals, or products from genetically modified animals. The report also covers the possible implications for animal health & welfare, the safety of animal products and the regulations.
Gene technology in livestock can be used for many purposes, including improving the quality and quantity of produce, protecting animal health and producing, for example, human drugs in animal milk. The market does not yet allow genetically modified animals for consumption, but it is not expected to be long before they reach the market outside the EU for use in food production. Faster-growing farmed transgenic fish are a good example. They have already been notified for regulatory approval in the US. Moreover, genetically modified animals are already allowed for the production of non-food products in the EU and the US; this involves the production of a medicine that is purified from the milk of genetically modified goats.
The Netherlands is taking a backseat with regard to policy on genetically modified animals, including animals for experimental, pharmaceutical and agricultural purposes. Permission for biotechnology on animals is only granted if it serves a tangible social interest. In addition, possible alternative methods for achieving the same goal must first be explored, as must the extent to which the experiment will damage the integrity, health and wellbeing of the animal concerned.
The report also contains recommendations for identifying possible loopholes in the regulations, for compiling a risk analysis of the consequences of homogenic animal populations bred through cloning and for devising detection strategies. The aim of the detection strategies is to help alert the authorities to the import of genetically modified animals from other countries. The detection strategies would also allow the government to uncover possible future cases of illegal ‘gene doping’ in animals. Examples of these detection strategies, some of which are being developed by doping authorities, include methods of recognising altered composition in genetic material or proteins in cells or blood serum.