Genetically engineered calf bred in China

Beijing - Scientists at a north China university say they have bred the world's first genetically-modified calf that will produce low-lactose milk in two years.

The calf, named "Lakes", was born April 24 at a lab of Inner Mongolia Agricultural University. She is healthy and strong, lab professor Zhang Li said Monday.

In May 2011, Zhang and his research team genetically engineered foetus that was transplanted into the womb of a cow in July, and Lakes was born about nine months later, said Zhang.

"The enzyme can dissolve lactose -- the main sugar found in dairy products -- into galactose or glucose to ease digestive disorders among the lactose-intolerant people," he said.

Lakes may, therefore, produce safer milk for lactose-intolerant people, who account for nearly 60 percent of Chinese. Symptoms of the allergy range from rashes to diarrhea and other digestive disorders, reported Xinhua.

"Lakes, the calf, is a blessing for these people," said Zhang. "She will produce low-lactose milk after she is 25 months old and have delivered calves."