Approval of gene-editing technology for use in the U.S. food supply chain is a major step forward for Genus PIC, which now looks toward U.S. cThe Food and Drug Administration has approved a gene edit used to create pigs resistant to Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome, or PRRS.

The Pig Improvement Co., a subsidiary of Genus PLC, said it would use the gene edit to breed PRRS-resistant pigs. “PRRS causes needless suffering and premature death for pigs, negatively impacts animal welfare, exacerbates the need for antibiotics and increases the environmental impact of raising pigs,” PIC said.

PIC said approval does not automatically trigger commercialization in the U.S.