England has become the first country in Europe to allow the commercial development of gene-edited food, according to a report by the BBC.
Gene editing is a technique used to make precise changes to the DNA of plants and organisms to enhance certain characteristics.
Commercializing Gene-edited Food
The Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Act, which covers plants and animals produced through techniques such as gene editing, has recently undergone an amendment to allow for the commercialization of gene-edited food.
This new law is expected to improve food production, bring job opportunities and various investments to England, according to Prof Gideon Henderson, chief scientific advisor for the Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs (Defra).
This law permits gene alterations that can have happened spontaneously or as a result of ongoing crossbreeding initiatives. Certain genes can be added to plants through gene editing, which helps plants grow faster or use fewer nutrients.
According to Prof. Henderson, the new law will also permit the creation of farm animals with genetic alterations, such as pigs that are resistant to disease. However, this decision will require the approval of MPs.
Crops that have been genetically modified are essential in the fight against global warming. For instance, by altering specific genes, scientists can create crops drought tolerant.
Scientists can also identify particular genes and then insert them in the appropriate locations to increase the size and flavor of the new variety in order to develop it more quickly.
However, due to the introduction of DNA from other species, genetically modified (GM) crops are forbidden.
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Still in its Infancy
Despite this accomplishment, it might be a while before we can eat food that has been genetically altered because the technology is still in its infancy.
Scientists assure the public that these foods will be safe to eat and will undergo thorough testing before entering the market.
The same restriction that has prohibited the commercial cultivation of GM crops under EU law has been applied to gene editing in England. The Westminster administration now has the freedom to loosen regulations and make room for newer technology thanks to Brexit.
The commercial development of gene-edited food has been rejected by the governments of Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Despite the fact that the new rule has been heralded as a game-changing decision, some critics have expressed worries about the possible hazards and effects that eating gene-edited food may have on the environment and food supply.
In sum, England's decision to allow the commercial development of gene-edited food marks a significant milestone in agriculture and food production.
The potential benefits of gene editing, such as increased crop yield and improved resistance to diseases and pests, could help address global challenges such as climate change and food security.
However, it is also essential to ensure that gene-edited food is safe and does not pose any risks to the environment or public health since the technology is still in its infancy.
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