Enviropig

Source: Wikimedia

Pig waste is a problem for both farmers and the environment. Pigs are unable to digest phytate, a phosphorus compound that makes up 50 to 75 percent of the phosphorus content of the grains and plants eaten as dietary staples by these animals. The phytate is then excreted in the pig waste, contaminating agricultural areas via run-off and drainage, sometimes resulting in fish kills. In addition, the pigs require supplementation. Researchers at the University of Guelph have attempted to find a solution to these problems – and they’re calling it Enviropig.
Read more about how transgenics is making a cleaner pig.

Fat-friendly transgenic meat

Omega-3 fatty acids are considered “healthy” fats. Found mainly in fish, these fats have been linked to beneficial cardiovascular effects and other health benefits, but most farm animals eat grains and other plants that contain omega-6 fatty acids, which are not processed the same way as omega-3 and do not offer the same health benefits. Some studies have even linked a higher omega-6 to omega-3 ratio to a higher prevalence of coronary artery disease. This makes many meats, especially those from farm animals, a less healthy source of fats in the human diet. A transgenic solution is to convert the dietary fat already being consumed into the healthier version by arming the animals with an enzyme.

Read about how scientists are creating fat-friendly meat with transgenics.