Prospects and problems of the new biotechnologies in the dairy industry

Biotechnology and genetic engineering are defined and their applications in the dairy industry described for pasture and animal improvement, and for dairy product processing in the factory. Problems in establishing new biotechnologies in the dairy industry and the regulatory hurdles that have to be overcome are discussed. Gene probes and monoclonal antibodies as diagnostics, bovine somatotropin to increase milk production, recombinant DNA-rennin in cheesemaking, recombinant-DNA starter cultures, and enzymes to convert lactose to oligosaccharides are used as examples relevant to the dairy industry. It is advocated that the dairy industry develop a biotechnology policy and an education programme, and actively consider joint ventures with dedicated biotechnology companies.