Its supporters dream of heat-resistant cows. But gene editing is making others nervous

The science is still in its infancy, but gene-edited foods are already on the shelves in Japan .

In the US firms are developing heat-resistant cattle, pit-less cherries and seedless blackberries.

Supporters of the technology say it could reduce animal diseases and lead to the use of fewer antibiotics.

But opponents say gene editing is still not proven to be safe and that they remain concerned about the implications for animal welfare.

Compassion in World Farming (CIWF) fears that the technology will further add to the intensification of animal farming.

CIWF ’s biggest fear is that gene-editing animals to make them more resistant to diseases will mean that the industry will not be motivated to deal with the conditions that lead to the animals getting ill in the first place - such as crowded, unsanitary conditions.

Gene editing seems to be a more palatable version of GM to some, arriving at a time when the debate is less polarised and the need for environmental solutions is even more urgent.

There are lessons here from the past when GM crops were rejected by many consumers in the UK , the European Union and other countries 30 years ago .