Gene Editing Breakthrough May Fast-Track Elite Beef Genetics
Gene Edited “Surrogate Sires” Could Accelerate Premium Beef Supply
A new gene-editing approach developed in the United States could enable premium beef genetics to be scaled rapidly. The use of gene edited surrogate sires is central to this breakthrough. As a result, this could potentially bring higher-quality steak lines to UK supermarket shelves within the next three to five years.
According to reporting by the Daily Mail, scientists have developed a technique known as “Surrogate Sires”. This involves editing male animals so they can produce sperm from elite donor genetics. Thus, this allows superior breeds such as Wagyu and Black Angus to be replicated across a much wider commercial herd.
The technology has reportedly been licensed to UK-based Pig Improvement Company (PIC) for commercial development. While originally associated with pig genetics, PIC’s involvement signals potential cross-species commercial applications within livestock breeding systems.
Supporters argue the system could dramatically shorten genetic improvement cycles. In turn, this would enable consistent eating quality, improved marbling and enhanced feed efficiency across larger beef populations. Critics highlight regulatory hurdles. They also mention likely consumer scrutiny surrounding gene edited livestock entering the food chain.
Source: Daily Mail | 15 February 2026
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