A Clone with Your Fries? The Regulation of Cloned Farm Animals in Australia

The cloning of farm animals is occurring in Australia and is raising significant concerns regarding both the cloning and sale of food products from clones. Concerns include: the health risks to clones and other animals involved in the procedure; any adverse impact on the genetic diversity of the species involved; the exploitation of animals; and the safety for consumers of their food products. Nevertheless, Australia has chosen not to prohibit animal cloning, nor is there legislation specifically regulating animal cloning or the sale of their products. This article considers the law's current response to farm animal cloning and the sale of their food products in Australia and whether that response adequately addresses the main concerns arising from such activities. It concludes that at least one important concern, possible effects on genetic diversity in livestock, is not being adequately addressed