Scientists in China have reportedly created a herd of genetically modified cows that produce milk similar to human breast milk. They claim that the human-like cow's milk could be available in Chinese markets within two years. What exactly are they doing, and why? Here, a brief guide:
What have Chinese scientists done?
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Why would they do that?
Human milk contains nutrients that help the immune and central nervous systems. Cow milk and goat milk lack such nutrients, but the genetically modified cows' milk would not. The goal is to make the "healthy protein contained in human milk... affordable for ordinary consumers," says Ning. He notes that in ancient China emperors and empresses drank human milk their whole lives, a luxury afforded only to them.
How does it taste?
It's got some kick. The genetically modified milk "tastes stronger than normal milk," says Ning. Wow, I'm "at a loss for words" over the "overwhelming grossness" of this idea, says Matthew McDermott at Treehugger.
Is it safe?
We don't know yet, but we will soon. China's Ministry of Agriculture is engaged in a 22-month study of the genetically modified herd, to determine if its milk can safely be sold in stores.
Sources: Times of India, People's Daily Online, Treehugger
