Viewpoint: Two dozen gene-edited crop field trials set to begin later this year in England ‘could have major benefits’

gm crops uk
Credit: Verdict

Later this year gene-edited crops will be planted at about two dozen commercial farms across England for the first time to see how plants previously confined to the laboratory and glasshouse will fare in real-world conditions. No other European nation is conducting such trials because the European Union treats gene-editing the same as it does gene-modification, effectively banning cultivation. Recent legislation passed at Westminster (but not enacted by Holyrood or the Senedd) makes a distinction between GE and GM, allowing the sowing of the former to go ahead. This farsighted decision could have major benefits.

Follow the latest news and policy debates on sustainable agriculture, biomedicine, and other ‘disruptive’ innovations. Subscribe to our newsletter.

At a time of climate fluctuation and international upheaval, the benefits of developing domestic food sources more resistant to weather, pathogens and pests are clear. The gene-edited crops being trialled could reduce methane emissions of cattle, cut ­carcinogens and produce a larger wheat grain. These are self-evidently desirable outcomes.

This is an excerpt. Read the original post here

{{ reviewsTotal }}{{ options.labels.singularReviewCountLabel }}
{{ reviewsTotal }}{{ options.labels.pluralReviewCountLabel }}
{{ options.labels.newReviewButton }}
{{ userData.canReview.message }}
skin microbiome x final

Infographic: Could gut bacteria help us diagnose and treat diseases? This is on the horizon thanks to CRISPR gene editing

Humans are never alone. Even in a room devoid of other people, they are always in the company of billions ...
glp menu logo outlined

Newsletter Subscription

* indicates required
Email Lists
glp menu logo outlined

Get news on human & agricultural genetics and biotechnology delivered to your inbox.