In its new Livestock Strategy, the European Commission expresses hope that new genetic engineering (NGT) in animals will lead to a “win-win for both economic and environmental outcomes”. Testbiotech questions this, given the prevailing trend toward increased performance in livestock, which can be observed not only in conventional animal breeding, but also in genetic engineering applications. Against this backdrop, Testbiotech emphasises that high animal welfare standards and comprehensive risk assessment must continue to govern genetic engineering in animals.
It is expected that, following the deregulation of NGT plants and the current discussion on deregulating genetically modified microorganisms, the Commission will now also target animals and soon present a corresponding legislative proposal. Supposed improvements in sustainability are brought forward to justify this: genetic engineering could be used to breed animals that utilize feed more efficiently and thus gain weight faster with less feed in a shorter time. Indeed, an evaluation of research projects in this area reveals that the myostatin gene, responsible for muscle growth, is probably the most frequently targeted gene. However, such applications, which are already being marketed in Japan, are ethically questionable. It is documented that pushing animals to their limits through breeding impairs animal welfare and can lead to further side effects that are not directly attributable to the abnormal muscle growth.
The Commission’s strategy makes no mention of the risks associated with the application of new genetic engineering in animal breeding. In this context, Testbiotech emphasises that new genetic engineering makes the animal genome available for genetic changes to a much greater extent than previous techniques. This technological potential gives rise to risks for animal welfare, animal health, animal breeding, agriculture, the environment, and also consumer protection. The risks can result both from the processes themselves (unintended effects) or their intended outcomes (desired traits). Against this backdrop, the EU should ensure that, in addition to risk research and risk assessment, a comprehensive technology impact assessment is enshrined in law.
If the hurdles for market authorisation is set too low and patents are granted on NGT farm animals, there is a risk of an increase in animal testing, animal losses, suffering and pain for the sake of economic expectations.
Contact:
Christoph Then, info@testbiotech.org, Tel +49 151 54638040
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