There’s been a constant debate about GM or genetically modified crops in the media. What’s not that well known is the fact that even animals have been genetically modified. Cows that yield more milk. Hens that lay larger eggs. Sheep that grow thicker fleece. Horses that have better immunity. It’s all been going on for years.

Now we have researchers in Scotland who have genetically edited pigs and made them immune to the swine virus that caused such panic in the world last couple of years. The scientists are working out of the same institute that created “Dolly, the sheep” who was the first cloned sheep in the world.

Current testing of the genetically altered pigs shows that they are not susceptible to the “blue ear” disease. First reported in 1987, the blue ear disease has cost the industry nearly one hundred and twenty million euros per year in losses due to infected pigs. The new breed will not get the illness and will be much sought after by pork and meat producers.

The bottom line may make it the better alternative to regular pig breeding. The possibility of genetically modified meat entering your plate has become much higher now that this science project has been a success.