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FDA Approves Gene-Editing Tech Creating PRRS-Resistant Pigs

By R. Scott Nolen

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of a gene-editing technology that creates pigs resistant to the highly contagious and costly porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS).

The decision is among first approvals for gene-edited livestock in the United States and comes after years of extensive research and collaboration between Pig Improvement Company (PIC), a subsidiary of the animal genetics company Genus, and the FDA.

The FDA determination that the gene edit is safe and effective could significantly change how pork producers manage the devastating viral disease.

PRRS’ impact

The PRRS virus causes fever, respiratory issues, and reproductive failure in pigs. It also suppresses pigs’ immune systems, making them more susceptible to secondary infections that may need to be treated by antibiotics.

From 2016-20, PRRS was responsible for an estimated $1.2 billion loss per year in U.S. pork industry production, an 80% increase from a decade earlier, according to a recent analysis by Iowa State University.

“PRRS continues to be a significant production-limiting and costly disease of swine that compromises both the health and welfare of pigs. It is the position of the American Association of Swine Veterinarians (AASV) that elimination of the PRRS virus from the North American swine industry is the long-term goal,” Dr. Abbey Canon, AASV’s director of public health and communications, told AVMA News.

“Veterinarians and swine producers support and employ science-based strategies to enhance the health and welfare of pigs. Gene editing has the potential to positively and significantly impact animal health and welfare, food safety, food security, and public health.

“AASV supports the responsible use of gene editing technologies to improve the health and well-being of swine under strict safety and ethical standards. This includes support for ongoing research, development, and implementation efforts to benefit swine health, human health, food safety, and the sustainability of the planet.”

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CEOs of the Industry – Rob Brenneman, CEO of Brenneman Pork

Video: CEOs of the Industry – Rob Brenneman, CEO of Brenneman Pork

“From Pork Production to Performance Nutrition: A Candid Conversation with One of the Industry’s Most Unconventional Thinkers”

CEOs of the Industry, we sit down with Rob Brenneman, the visionary behind Brenneman Pork, for an unfiltered, in-depth conversation on leadership, survivability, nutrition, and the future of pig farming.

Rob shares how a deep-rooted commitment to **health—both animal and personal—**drives his philosophy and decision-making. From reshaping pork nutrition and advocating for the return of well-marbled, flavorful pork to confronting the ongoing battle with PRRS and other health threats, Rob’s insights reflect decades of hands-on experience and bold innovation.

Key themes include: Nutrition Reimagined: Why the industry went off course—and how Brenneman Pork is leading change by prioritizing gut health, fat quality, and real performance.

Health & Survivability: Rob’s take on biosecurity, disease management, and the systems and protocols that protect both pigs and profitability.

Well-Marbled Pork as Premium Protein: The science, consumer insights, and culinary feedback behind Rob’s mission to reintroduce pork as a premium, flavorful protein.

Sustainability & Farm Culture: How Brenneman Pork balances environmental responsibility with day-to-day positivity and resilience.

Generational Impact: Strategies to attract, inspire, and retain the next wave of pork producers with pride and purpose.

Plus, a fast-paced finale where Rob shares his top pork pick, leadership lessons, and what he’d change overnight in the industry.

Whether you're a producer, nutritionist, policymaker, or future leader, this episode offers a masterclass in where pork production is headed—and how visionaries like Rob are shaping it.