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Chinese scientists have successfully cloned three super cow calves that are projected to produce 50% more milk than the average American cow. The cloning was performed at the Northwest University of Agricultural and Forestry Science and Technology in Shaanxi using tissue from cows across China and the somatic cell nuclear transfer method. The healthy calves, born last month, will eventually produce 18 tons of milk per year. By comparison, US cows produce 12 tons annually. The super cows were created using the Holstein Friesian breed, known for high milk production, and will help reduce China’s dependence on importing dairy cows as they aim to build a herd of over 1,000 super cows in 2-3 years. The meat and milk from a cloned cow has been deemed safe to consume by the US Food and Drug Administration.
