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Novel Feeds from Biotechnology-Derived Animals

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What are biotechnology-derived animals?

Several statutes within the Government of Canada define Biotechnology as "The application of science and engineering in the direct or indirect use of living organisms or parts or products of living organisms in their natural or modified forms". This broad definition encompasses organisms developed through traditional breeding methods and newer technologies such as genetic engineering.

As such "biotechnology - derived animal" is an extension of the definition of biotechnology and may include, but is not limited to, the following categories of animals:

  1. Genetically engineered or modified animals in which genetic material has been added, deleted, silenced or altered to influence expression of genes and traits.
  2. Clones of animals derived by nuclear transfer from embryonic and somatic cells.
  3. Chimeric animals that have received transplanted cells from another animal.
  4. Interspecies hybrids produced by any method.
  5. Animals derived by in-vitro cultivation such as maturation or manipulation of embryos.

What are feed products from animals?

Many products and by-products of animal origin are approved for use as ingredients in livestock feed in Canada. They include animal proteins (milk, blood meal, meat and bone meal) animal fats and oils (tallow), and marine proteins (fish meal). These products, which are used for protein or energy sources in livestock feeds are listed in Schedule IV of the Feeds Regulations.

What are novel feeds from biotechnology-derived animals?

Novel feeds from biotechnology-derived animals are feeds that are derived from products/by-products of animal origin where the animal has been developed using techniques of biotechnology such as somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) and recombinant DNA (rDNA) techniques.

Safety assessment of novel feeds products from biotechnology-derived animals

Feeds that contain products and by-products of biotechnology-derived animals as ingredients may be regulated as novel feeds. All novel feeds must be assessed by the Feed Section, CFIA, before they can be used as livestock feed in Canada. This assessment considers the safety of the feed to livestock, to humans via worker/by-stander exposure and consumption of animal products, and to the environment.

Research with novel feeds products from biotechnology-derived animals

Researchers in private, governmental or academic research establishments who intend to conduct research with novel feeds may require an authorization from the Feed Section.

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