A newly-launched campaign aims to promote USDA regulation of livestock gene editing when breeding animals for food.

FDA promises new guidance focused on clearer, simpler approvals for gene editing advances, plus help for animal biotech product developers.

Some activist groups and small-farm advocates seem to dislike anything that qualifies as a “big” agribusiness – especially those who sell crop protection chemicals. But they are increasingly being met by leaders who are openly trying to address their concerns.

Breeders and biotech companies are hoping for regulatory elbow room as the EU and other nations pursue oversight rules for gene editing techniques.

Researchers in the U.S. and abroad are reporting progress on eliminating Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS), an incurable pig disease that costs the American pork industry as much as $660 million per year. However, regulatory hurdles and consumer perceptions are slowing down the commercialization of a possible cure through gene editing.

All voices on USDA’s looming bioengineering label rules call for clear, honest disclosure but debate just what that means.