FDA to Approve Genetically Engineered Animals; Treat Them as Corporate Intellectual Property

Friday, January 30, 2009 by: David Gutierrez, staff writer

(NaturalNews) The FDA has adopted new rules allowing companies to sell genetically modified animals and their products on the market, and affirming that the DNA of such animals is private property that can be held under patent.

Clinical trials like those needed for drugs will not be required, however.

No FDA approval will be required for cloned animals or those intended only for research or as pets.

Experts objected to the FDA's decision to allow the approval process to remain secret in order to protect the financial interests of companies that hold patents on genetically modified animals and their DNA.

Others criticized the FDA's decision to not require labeling of genetically modified animal products as long as there is no change in composition in the final product.