Graduate Student Literature Review: Advancing synthetic biology in the dairy industry—Innovations, applications, and policy implications

The dairy industry has relied on synthetic biology since the late twentieth century, and its use is poised to expand as molecular biology techniques advance. As the utility of synthetic biology grows, it will play an increasingly central role in addressing the industry's evolving needs, such as protein expression, bioagent control, and meeting industry needs. This review explores various molecular approaches and strategies, focusing on recombinant technology and bacteriophage applications. Additionally, this manuscript examines the policy implications of adopting synthetic biology in dairy production, focusing on regulation, safety standards, consumer transparency, and industry acceptance. This work aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of synthetic biology in the dairy industry while highlighting the potential for new strategies to drive innovation and improve sustainability.