Brussels (dpa) – Foods modified through modern genetic engineering techniques may soon be available in EU supermarkets without the need for special labeling. Negotiators from the EU member states and the European Parliament reached an agreement in Brussels to exempt certain genetically engineered varieties from the previous stringent EU regulations, as announced on Thursday evening. The new rules still require approval from the EU Parliament and member states, which is typically a formality after a compromise has been reached by the negotiators.
Nevertheless, the same safety standards will apply to these foods as to those created via traditional crossbreeding and selection methods. Generally, it will be impossible to differentiate a plant modified using the Crispr/Cas gene-editing technique from a naturally occurring variety.
Enhanced produce?
Proponents of the changes are optimistic that they will lead to more productive and climate-resilient fruit and vegetable varieties that are also richer in nutrients. Researchers anticipate that less stringent regulations will facilitate scientific inquiry.
In several other regions, regulations are already more lenient, and both Parliament and EU member states believe this shift will enhance farmers’ competitiveness. The Deutscher Bauernverband has expressed general support for the easing of regulations.
Demands for labeling
Critics, however, argue for mandatory labeling to ensure consumers can choose whether to purchase such foods. They also maintain that organic farming should remain free of genetic engineering practices in the future. According to Parliament, a “technically unavoidable presence” of genetic engineering would not be considered a violation.
Gene editing can permit both minor and more significant alterations in plants. Stricter regulations will still be enforced for substantial interventions, such as introducing genes from different species into a plant, as seen when bacterial genes are inserted into corn. (4 December)
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