USDA backs FDA cloned food decision

WASHINGTON, Jan. 15 (UPI) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture agrees with the Food and Drug Administration decision that meat and milk from certain cloned animals are safe to eat.

The FDA announced Tuesday it had concluded that meat and milk from clones of cattle, swine and goats -- and the offspring of clones from any species traditionally consumed as food -- are as safe as food from conventionally bred animals.

USDA Undersecretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Bruce Knight said his agency will work closely with stakeholders to ensure a smooth and seamless transition into the marketplace for the food products.

"Cloning is another breeding technique that has evolved and has now been demonstrated to be safe," said Knight. "It is helpful in creating genetic twins of the very best animals who can transmit superior characteristics to their offspring and quickly improve a herd."