CRISPR gene-editing for crops: Precision tool or new risk?

CRISPR gene-editing for crops: Precision tool or new risk?

The EU has eased restrictions on crops developed using novel genetic techniques. While supporters say the technology could help farmers adapt to climate change, critics argue its effects remain poorly understood.

New genomic techniques for plants approved by EU Parliament, companies respond

European Parliament has adopted new rules facilitating access to new plants that are climate and pest resistant, give higher yields and require fewer pesticides. The amended rules for new genomic techniques (NGTs) were provisionally agreed between Parliament and Council in December 2025. The new EU rules…

Gene-edited crops approved in Europe - Expert Reaction - Science Media Centre

Regulation to permit gene-edited plants has just passed in European Parliament, allowing genetic changes that don’t introduce foreign DNA. The new rules aim to improve the food system by allowing gene-edited crop varieties that are more climate and pest resistant, yield more produce, or need fewer chemicals to grow. Plants with few changes—similar to those that could result from ordinary breeding or mutation—face fewer restrictions, while others…