The government of the United Kingdom has taken a first step in new legislation on gene editing techniques (eg CRISPR-Cas). The path taken by the English Ministry of Agriculture (Defra) after Brexit has made it easier for scientists in England to apply new breeding techniques.
Simplified regulations surrounding gene editing make it easier for researchers to develop more nutritious and resilient crops with a potentially higher yield that require fewer crop protection products, Defra says. The change in regulations is currently aimed at research institutes working on new varieties. This makes it easier for them to set up studies in which new breeding techniques are used in plant breeding. For the time being, genetically edited plants will still be qualified as genetically modified organisms (GMO). The commercial cultivation of these crops and any food products derived from them must still be authorized in accordance with current rules.
Opportunities
“New genetic techniques can help us solve the biggest challenges we face in our time, such as food security, climate change and biodiversity loss,” writes Jo Churchill, Minister for Agri Innovation and Climate Adaptation, in a message from Defra. “Now we have the freedom and opportunity to drive innovation, improve the environment and work towards plants that are stronger and more resilient to climate change.” As examples of where the new breeding techniques are being used, Defra cites: the development of sugar beets that are resistant to the yellowing virus, wheat without asparagine (a possible carcinogen formed during the baking process), climate-resistant wheat and tomatoes that are resistant to mildew.