Cloned meat raises issue in US

The two organisations sent a letter to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to emphasise the uncertainty over the safety of food from cloned animals.

 

The message comes at a time in which the FDA is about to allow food from cloned animals.

 

The FDA says there is no extra danger in consuming cloned products.

 

Three years ago a study was presented into the admission of cloned animal products – possibly paving the way for a definite decision, to be taken by the end of the year.

 

However, Joseph Mendelson, CFS legal director, said, “Cloning is completely unnecessary and will increase animal cruelty in food production, yet the industry wants to test their cloned foods on the American public.”

 

Health and environmental reviews should be made before allowing food from cloned animals. A ‘blue ribbon panel’ should review ethical issues tied to the matter.

 

Additionally, they asked the agency to regulate cloned animals as “new animal drugs,” using the argument that processors are making changes that affect the body of the animal.

 

The dairy industry is said to be opposing the FDA plans.

 

Research on the other hand reveals that 60% of the Americans does not really favour the idea of consuming cloned animal products. However, these concerns are predominantly based on ethic or religious beliefs.

 

• US Food and Drug Administration

• Humane Society of the United States (HSUS)

• United States and the Center for Food Safety (CFS)