Gene Editing Framework Gets Support from Biotech Ecosystem Community

The Framework for Responsible Use of Gene Editing in Agriculture was developed by the Coalition for Responsible Gene Editing in Agriculture. It is meant to increase transparency and stakeholder engagement to build trust in the products derived through gene editing and those using them and is continuously getting the support of organizations in the biotech field.

The Framework provides principles and guidelines that organizations can voluntarily follow to demonstrate their willingness to be transparent in the safe use of gene editing technology and its desired outcomes that benefit the food system, environment, and society as a whole. It was developed by representatives from food companies, academic institutions, farmer organizations, non-governmental organizations, gene editing technology developers, and related associations.

The latest to support the Framework is the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO), the world's largest advocacy association representing member companies, state biotechnology groups, academic and research institutions, and related organizations. In a press release, BIO's Vice President for Agriculture and Environment Sarah Gallo said that the organization believes that innovation flourishes when science and consumer values are aligned and complement one another. “This framework establishes a process to examine meaningful criteria in an objective, predictable and consistent way — characteristics that are important to technology developers, as well as stakeholders looking to endorse innovation in product development,” she said.

Charlie Arnot, Chief Executive Officer of The Center for Food Integrity, also said that the Framework is one tool that organizations can use to earn the trust of food industry stakeholders and consumers. “Gene editing has tremendous potential to benefit our entire food production system from the farmer to the consumer. These benefits will only be realized if consumers trust that the resulting products are safe and understand how using gene editing technology helps achieve goals that align with broader social goals like producing the food we need with less environmental impact and reducing pests and disease in crops and livestock,” he added.

Download a copy of the Framework and read the full press release from the Coalition for Responsible Gene Editing in Agriculture to learn more.