Gene editing for animal welfare: Heather Bray speaks on ABC Radio National

In the latest episode of ABC Radio National program "Science Friction", Dr Heather Bray weighs in on the topic of gene editing using new CRISPR-CAS9 technology for livestock animal welfare.

The episode "Making animals happier? Gene editing in the farm yard", looks at the history of genetic modification and gene editing science and technology, and asks important questions about public values, ethics, and regulation:

Just one genetically modified animal has been approved for human consumption anywhere in the world. A fast growing species of salmon. It took more than 20 years of jumping through regulatory hoops to land on menus in Canada, and soon the USA. From hornless cows to sexing chickens - could new gene editing techniques improve animal welfare? Will they pass the taste test with consumers? And how should they be regulated? Join Science Friction in the farm yard...

Visit the ABC RN website to listen and read more.