The NPPC argues that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), with its robust oversight on plant genetics and extensive knowledge of the livestock industry, would be a better fit for regulating biotechnology under existing acts like the Animal Health Protection Act, the Federal Meat Inspection Act, and the Poultry Products Inspection Act.
This suggestion comes from a place of looking forward, as the pork industry recognizes the immense potential of biotechnology. Innovations in this field could significantly enhance animal health, tackling diseases like the porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS), and contribute to the industry's goals of improving animal well-being, responsible antibiotic use, and environmental sustainability.
The NPPC’s push for change is more than a regulatory debate; it's about making the way for a future where biotechnology can play a crucial role in the sustainable and humane production of pork.
As discussions continue, the potential shift of regulatory authority to the USDA marks a hopeful step towards fostering innovation, development, and adoption of biotechnology in food animal production, ensuring a brighter, healthier future for pork industry stakeholders and consumers alike.