Overview

• The FDA authorized commercial breeding of pigs with a CRISPR-edited CD163 gene that blocks virtually all porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome strains without altering other traits.
• CRISPR-edited pigs could appear in US supermarkets as early as 2026, potentially saving the pork industry about $1.2 billion a year in PRRS-related losses.
• Canada has opened a public comment period through July 20, 2025, on approving similar gene-edited pigs, marking its most significant livestock biotech review since EnviroPig and AquAdvantage salmon.
• The European Union continues to ban gene-edited foods and England’s Precision Breeding Act currently covers only crops, leaving livestock GMO regulations unchanged.
• Producers and researchers highlight reduced antibiotic use and improved animal welfare as primary benefits, with further CRISPR applications under study for other livestock diseases.