Human Genes Introduced Into Dairy Cows

Brace yourself: scientists have created some freakish genetically-modified human-cow amalgams to produce cow’s milk with the properties of human breast milk. According to the Telegraph, the scientists used cloning technology to introduce human genes into Holstein cows then implanted surrogate cows with the genetically-modified embryos. I’m not sure even Mary Shelley could have thought this one up.

The scientists believe the cows will produce milk with a human protein called lysozyme. Extensive recent research has already called into question the safety of genetically-modified (GM) foods, but this is a far cry from GM corn, canola, and other seeds. We’re talking living animals here. Does anyone else see the potentially serious effects of unleashing the work of egomaniacal scientists on the world in the form of human-cow prototypes? This human-cow milk gives new meaning to the term “fusion cuisine.”

Joking aside, exactly how safe is this for either the cattle or the humans who consume the milk? No one really knows for sure right now since this research is in its infancy. And, I hope that’s where it ends.

What do you think about the cows sporting human genes? I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Subscribe to my free e-newsletter World’s Healthiest News for more cutting-edge health news, tips, and recipes.

Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of
Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.

Kelly P.

4:09PM PDT on May 5, 2013

We should not condemn all GMOs because of problems with some of them (especially those brought to us by that sociopathic monster, Monsanto). Genetic engineering has great potential, and the benefits of feeding infants milk closer to what they should be drinking could have great health benefits. Sure, they should be drinking human milk, but - face it - most babies in the industrialized world never will. So let's not jump to judgment without having all the facts, and the results of unbiased research.

May 5
send a green star

B J.

6:01PM PDT on May 1, 2013

The world has gone mad!! Doesn't science have more useful things to spend time and $ researching?

May 1
send a green star

Kim W.

7:56AM PDT on Apr 17, 2013

It is wrong, and just because some lab person thinks it up doesn't mean they get to act on it

April 17
send a green star

sandra g.

4:48AM PDT on Apr 17, 2013

They are all mad believing they are God to manipulate Nature in such a way, for sure this will not end in a good way !

Patricia H.

2:02AM PDT on Mar 29, 2013

thanks for posting, vegan is the way to go

March 29
send a green star

Camilla V.

8:43AM PDT on Mar 27, 2013

that is sick, glad that i am vegan

March 27
send a green star

JL A.

8:33AM PDT on Mar 15, 2013

Ouch!

March 15
send a green star

paul m.

6:46AM PDT on Mar 15, 2013

Thanks for ...

Duane B.

11:56AM PST on Mar 6, 2013

Thank you for sharing.

March 6
send a green star

Julie D.

9:37AM PST on Jan 19, 2013

Absolutely frightening prospect! I am against GMO anything but this really takes the cake! This should not be allowed and if they can't stop it this milk HAS to be labeled as such so the consumers know what they are buying. Really scary stuff!