North American organic and Certified Humane pork producer duBreton is calling on animal welfare and food certification organizations to take a clear stance against gene-edited pork.
A recent duBreton survey indicates 3 out of 4 consumers are concerned about gene-edited pork.
The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved the use of gene-edited pork without mandatory labeling requirements or voluntary labeling guidelines. Unless brands choose to disclose it, consumers are left in the dark. Despite claims that gene-editing poses no risk to human health or animal welfare, no long-term studies have been conducted, raising serious concerns about its widespread introduction into America's pork supply.
duBreton, based in the Canadian province of Quebec, is urging certification bodies to update their standards and audit protocols to explicitly prohibit the use of gene-edited pork, giving shoppers greater confidence in the certifications they see on pack.
"Without enforceable standards and transparent labeling, consumers cannot be certain the pork they purchase hasn't been altered through genetic engineering," said Vincent Breton, president of duBreton. "Our latest surveys make it clear: 74% of consumers are concerned about gene-edited pork in their food supply and demand total transparency."
Certified Humane sets example, duBreton says
duBreton applauds Certified Humane for acting swiftly. Active in 24 countries, Certified Humane has long prohibited genetic modification across all the species it inspects, and recently updated its program standards to explicitly recognize "gene-editing" as a form of genetic modification.
"Gene-editing is unnecessary. Our farms are proof that healthy pigs can be raised the way nature intended, through proper animal husbandry, strong biosecurity, and humane farming practices," says Breton. A long-time partner and advocate for animal welfare, the duBreton brand proudly displays the Certified Humane and USDA Organic seals on-pack, giving consumers confidence that their purchase is free from gene-editing practices.
About duBreton
Rooted in four generations of agri-food excellence, duBreton champions a world where human health, animal welfare, and sustainable farming thrive. Recognized as North America's leading supplier of organic pork with a growing global presence, duBreton exceeds certification standards for Global Animal Partnership (GAP), Certified Humane Raised & Handled, and USDA Organic programs.
