Regulatory considerations for biotechnology-derived animals in Canada.

Regulatory initiatives relating to biotechnology-derived livestock have focused on animal health, environmental impact, and the general concept of the safety of the food and by-products derived from such animals. Existing regulatory frameworks have been stretched to accommodate these emerging concerns. Public concerns and the expectations of society mean that the regulatory infrastructure is subject to a high level of scrutiny and that regulations are expected to maintain a clear level of confidence, transparency and effectiveness. A sound regulatory regime should be 'neutral', neither 'facilitating' nor 'restricting' the approval of products or by-products derived from biotechnology-derived animals.