Regulation and safety considerations of somatic cell nuclear transfer-cloned farm animals and their offspring used for food production

Abstract

This document discusses recent developments in cloning of husbandry animals through somatic cell nuclear transfer, particularly with a view on improvements in their efficacy. Commercial developments in North and South America, Australia-New Zealand, and China are noted. The regulations and safety aspects surrounding the use of clones and their offspring for the purpose of food production are discussed. It is generally considered that foods from offspring of clones are no different than similar foods from conventional animals, yet besides safety, also ethical and animal welfare considerations come into play at the policy level. The related topic of detection and traceability of clones is discussed, which covers both molecular and documentary methods.

Keywords: Animal cloning; Animal husbandry; Food safety; Regulation; Risk assessment; Somatic cell nuclear transfer; Traceability.