Number: RL33334
Title: Biotechnology in Animal Agriculture: Status and Current Issues
Authors: Tadlock Cowan and Geoffrey S. Becker, Resources, Science, and Industry Division 
Abstract: This report describes several scientifically emerging animal biotechnologies that, while not yet commercialized, are raising a variety of questions concerning risks to humans, animals, and the environment, as well as ethical concerns. The report describes applications of the technologies and discusses major issues that may arise. Consumers, agricultural producers, the biotechnology industry, and federal regulatory bodies are debating the relative costs and benefits of these technologies. As technologies reach commercialization, Congress may be asked to examine these issues and possibly to refine the current federal regulatory structure governing the technologies and their agricultural products.
Pages: 22
Date: September 23, 2008