US EditionEU agrees deal on genetically edited crops, sparking renewed debate
- On Wednesday, negotiators from the European Union agreed a new framework for new genomic techniques in plant breeding that exempts many NGT plants from strict GM rules, with the European Council saying it could help farmers compete globally.
- Patents had been a central dispute, with the European Parliament originally calling for a patent ban to protect farmers' rights while proponents of new genomic techniques argued loosening rules boosts food security and reduces dependency on non-EU suppliers.
- Technically, NGTs differ because they do not require inserting foreign DNA and the deal preserves farmers' right to save seeds while easing labeling for supermarkets.
- The agreement now awaits formal endorsement by the European Parliament and member states in a second-reading step, with agriculture unions supporting it while consumers and critics raise choice and safety concerns.
- If enacted, the change could increase adoption of gene-edited crops across the EU, strengthening food security and reducing reliance on non-EU suppliers, while eased labeling and patents reshape the market for breeders, retailers and consumers.
60 Articles
60 Articles
EU negotiators have agreed to loosen the rules for food from genetically modified plants. Among other things, the agreement provides for fewer environmental audits and no mandatory labelling in the supermarket. The agricultural industry welcomes the agreement, while consumers fear that buyers will be deceived.
The planned relaxation of EU regulations for genetically modified foods is raising questions, especially among opponents. However, there are significant differences in genetic engineering. We clarify the most important questions. By Tobias Betz.
In the EU, labelling for genetic engineering is to be partially eliminated. Chance or risk? And: Anti-corruption charges against former EU High Representative Mogherini.
Many foods from genetically modified plants will no longer have to be labelled as such in the future, and representatives from the EU Parliament and the European Council have agreed on this. Proponents hope for new plant varieties that can cope better with droughts and need less fertilizer.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 45% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
