Regulation of genome edited crops – European Union (EU) perspective

Abstract: In 2021 and on request of the Council of the European Union, the European
Commission conducted and published a study regarding the status of New Genomic Techniques under Union law. The study identified limitations to the capacity of the legislation on genetically modified organisms (GMO) to keep pace with scientific developments; these cause implementation challenges and suffers from legal uncertainties. The European Commission started in 2022 to conduct consultations for gaining input on amending the legal framework for plants obtained by targeted mutagenesis and cisgenesis and for their food and feed products.
The aim of the policy action is to maintain a high level of protection for human and animal
health and the environment, to secure a proportionate risk assessment, enable innovation in the agri-food system and contribute to the goals of the European Green Deal and the ‘Farm to Fork’ strategy. We summarize the current status paving the way to make European GMO regulation fit for purpose.