EU deadlock continues over deregulating gene-edited food, split remains
A proposal by the Belgian Council Presidency to address the deadlock on New Genomic Techniques (NGTs) legislation was taken off the EU ambassadors’ meeting agenda on Wednesday. The decision was made as some member states, particularly Poland, were not convinced by the final proposal.
The lack of consensus among EU governments prevented the adoption of a common position on NGT rules. Poland’s Agriculture Minister expressed reluctance to support the law due to insufficient time to analyze the proposal’s impact.
Efforts to unlock the potential benefits of novel genomic technologies have faced challenges, with disagreements over loosening rules on NGTs. Italy recently conducted its first field trial of an NGT crop, but it was vandalized shortly after planting.
The debate over NGTs has divided opinions, reminiscent of past conflicts over GMOs. While some argue that NGTs pose similar risks, others believe they are distinct and offer agricultural solutions.
Despite advancements in genome editing technologies like CRISPR-Cas9, the EU’s strict regulations on GMOs have limited the cultivation of gene-edited crops in Europe. Advocates call for a shift in focus towards developing NGTs to address current agricultural challenges.
While public concerns about GMOs persist, there is a growing interest in NGTs for improving crop resilience and addressing Climate Change. The draft legislation on NGTs is expected to face delays at the Council, with little progress anticipated under future presidencies.
In conclusion, the debate over NGTs continues to shape the future of agricultural Innovation in the EU.
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John Peterson graduated with a degree in Agricultural Sciences from Wageningen University in the Netherlands. His specialization is in sustainable crop production and soil health management. John is passionate about integrating modern technology with traditional farming methods to enhance productivity while preserving the environment. He currently works as a consultant, helping farmers adopt sustainable practices.