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EU’s revised GMO rules find young consumers favoring gene-edited crops

EU's revised GMO rules find young consumers favoring gene-edited crops EU, gene-edited crops, partial, revised GMO rules, Young consumers Food and Beverage Business

According to Mintel, young consumers show a greater inclination towards genetically modified (GM) foods if they offer improved nutrition. In Germany, for instance, 23% of consumers aged 16-24 would choose a food or drink product with genetically modified ingredients if it was more nutritious, compared to the national average of 13%. This openness to nutritious GM products reflects a broader acceptance of GM food among younger consumers, with 30% of Brits believing that GM food can help alleviate global hunger, rising to 44% among those under 35. Additionally, 40% of Brits aged 16-44 would purchase GM produce if it provided greater nutritional value. Alex Beckett, Director of Mintel Food & Drink, notes that younger consumers are attracted to plant breeding’s potential benefits, including improved nutrition and functional health ingredients.

The debate surrounding GM foods is controversial; however, Mintel data emphasizes the importance of understanding consumer opinions as regulations in this area evolve rapidly. Recent developments in GM foods and ingredients suggest their potential in addressing food security and malnutrition. Younger generations, in particular, demonstrate a pragmatic approach towards GM, being more willing to embrace new solutions and trusting in technology’s ability to improve the world. As the generation that will inherit this planet, their perspective is understandable.

In a move distinct from allowing genetically modified foods, the Commission aims to revise regulations on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to facilitate the use of gene-edited crops. This aligns with the UK government’s push to allow gene editing as well. Gene editing and genetic modification are separate processes, with the former involving the modification of genes within a species rather than introducing DNA from one species to another.

The Commission’s proposal seeks to label crops produced with new gene editing techniques, such as mutagenesis and cisgenesis, differently from GMO products, reversing a 2018 ruling by the European Court of Justice. The Court had argued that excluding these new GMOs from existing regulations would contradict the purpose of the rules, which are meant to safeguard the environment and human health while upholding the precautionary principle.

Acknowledging that GMO legislation from 2001 is “not fit for purpose,” the EU executive launched a review in 2021. They contend that new gene editing techniques pose no greater risk to human health than traditional plant cultivation methods. The European Parliament will determine the committee responsible for forming the Parliament’s position on the proposal, while national governments will assign the ministers responsible for agreeing on their joint stance. Concerns have been raised by some governments, including Austria, Slovakia, and Luxembourg, as well as environmental groups.

Critics argue that the release of new GMOs into the environment, including those created through CRISPR technology, will harm agricultural biodiversity and soil health in European fields, leading to monocultures and reducing the number of species and food varieties essential for ensuring food security. However, proponents of gene editing techniques emphasize their necessity in helping farmers adapt to climate change and produce more nutritious food. They believe that loosening restrictions on newer gene-editing technology will provide farmers with access to climate and pest-resistant crops, require fewer fertilizers and pesticides, and enable consumers to purchase food with enhanced nutrition or reduced allergenic properties.

Industry association FoodDrinkEurope sees the proposed rule change as facilitating the development of crop varieties with specific and beneficial characteristics. They state that Europe’s food and drink manufacturers, who account for 70% of EU agricultural production, need a secure supply of quality, safe, and sustainable ingredients. Additionally, farmers require access to all available tools to overcome challenges such as climate change and plant diseases.

The Commission asserts that its proposals will foster innovation and sustainability by safely utilizing new genomic techniques for developing climate-resilient crops, reducing chemical pesticide usage, and ensuring the availability of sustainable, high-quality, and diverse seeds and reproductive material for plants and forests. Farmer group Copa and Cogeca underline that new plant breeding techniques are necessary for breeders to expedite their programs and introduce improved plant varieties to the market. These techniques, accessible in all sectors and regions, will assist European farmers facing various challenges, including the accelerating impact of climate change.

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