47 Navigating the Biotechnology Landscape in Animal Agriculture: Consumer and Producer Acceptance of Gene Editing to Improve Farm Animal Welfare

Abstract

Abstract Consumer demand for production process traits in food and agricultural products is rapidly increasing. Recent legal measures reflect the demand for high animal welfare standards. At the same time, consumers are wary of biotechnology applications in food and agriculture, with calls for natural or organic production across the industry. However, when biotechnologies are applied for the benefit of the consumer or address a consumer concern, they become more acceptable. Producers, however, may be hesitant to adopt biotechnologies, given concerns about market acceptance. This presentation will explore the economic foundations, challenges, and opportunities for consumer and producer acceptance of biotechnology applications in animal welfare, especially gene editing techniques. Using the pork and diary industries as case studies, this talk will discuss the emerging opportunities for future improvements through gene editing. Understanding the economic foundations of biotechnology used to improve animal welfare aids agricultural producers, scientists, and policymakers to make optimal decisions regarding how these important aspects of animal agriculture progress.