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CRISPR tomatoes now on the shelves

Fruits supposedly improves quality of sleep

5 February 2024 / The first CRISPR tomatoes are now on the shelves in Japan. The 'GABA tomato' was developed with new genetic engineering techniques (NGTs). This is shown by photo just recently taken in a supermarket in the Tokyo region. According to the information on the packages, the tomatoes will lower blood pressure, relieve mental stress and improve sleep quality. Experts are doubting that the consumption of the fruits goes along with such effects.

Environmental Committee of EU Parliament in favour of far reaching deregulation of NGT plants

Final vote in plenary beginning of February

24 January 2024 / The EU Parliament's Environment Committee today voted in favour of a far-reaching deregulation of plants obtained by new genetic engineering (NGT). The decision was preceded by a massive lobbying campaign by industry and affiliated stakeholders, supported by the EU Commission.

The flowering dreams of genetic engineering

Drastic changes in species-specific characteristics in CRISPR poplar

22 January 2024 / A review of the data in current publications shows that the cultivation of plants obtained from new genetic engineering (NGT or New GE) can be used to drastically alter the species-specific characteristics of poplar trees. No additional genes need to be inserted and the trees do not have to produce new or altered proteins. Poplar trees only begin to flower in nature after seven to ten years, but in experiments, after gene scissors-based interventions, they flowered after just four months.

What is key for future regulation of New Genomic Techniques (NGT)?

Expert opinions about regulation of NGT plants

20 January 2024 / Yesterday detailed insights on future regulation of NGT plants were presented in an online workshop by four experts. The topics were the risks of a deregulation of NGT plants for nature and the environment as well as the impact of patents on European breeders. There was a common understanding that the position of the rapporteur of the EU Parliament as well as the proposal of the EU Commission needs to be revised thoroughly.