By Li Hongmei

The European Commission adopted two resolutions banning the sale, marketing and import of cloned meat in the European Union, citing concerns about ethical issues, "consumer perceptions" and animal welfare.

According to the new rules, cloning animals will only be allowed for conservation of rare breeds, production of pharmaceuticals or scientific research.

Industry specialists describe the Commission's decision as a "preemptive strike" or "gross overreaction" to a non-existing threat. They argue that so far, no company from the European Union has applied for permits to import or produce cloned meat.

Supporters of the new regulation believe that food producers were expecting a clarification on the rules and that the European Commission's decision to ban cloned meat in a preemptive manner is a good one.

City AM reports that American regulators have a positive view on cloned meat and dairy products: "The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) found in January 2008 that meat and milk from cloned animals, such as cattle, pigs and goats, are as safe as those from non-cloned animals."

The European Union Health Commissioner, Tonio Borg told the press that European regulators look at cloned food from a different perspective:

"Today's initiatives on animal cloning respond to animal welfare concerns as well as consumer perceptions on food from animal clones in a realistic and workable way. The changes on novel food will create a more efficient system. It will offer EU consumers the benefit of a broad choice of foodstuffs and provides a favorable environment for Europe's food industry."

The ban on cloned food can create certain difficulties for companies that export meat to the European Union.

Reportedly, the United States, Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay are among countries that farm the offspring of cloned animals. It is probable that from now on, meat exporters from those countries will have to prove that the meat sold in Europe is not a result of cloning.