Public acceptance and stakeholder views of gene edited foods: a global overview

Needs and opportunities to future-proof crops and the use of crop systems to mitigate atmospheric change

Predicted changes in atmospheric composition and climate affecting crop productivity are reviewed. These include changes in both average conditions and extreme events, with respect to temperature, drought, flooding and surface ozone, coupled with rising atmospheric [CO2]. Impacts on, and means to adapt, crops to these changes are reviewed and outlined. Particular emphasis is given to (i) the results from open air field manipulations of surface atmosphere, temperature and soil water to understand impacts and adaptation and (ii) demonstrated genetic manipulations of photosynthesis and water use that could support future food supply under current and future conditions. Finally, attention is given to means by which crop systems could serve as CO2 collectors and carbon storage systems. Here, apparent opportunities are outlined for (i) manipulations of crops to enhance carbon storage and (ii) use of high-productivity sustainable perennial C4 grasses coupled with carbon capture and storage.This article is part of the theme issue 'Crops under stress: can we mitigate the impacts of climate change on agriculture and launch the 'Resilience Revolution'?'.

How risk communication affects public trust in government: the moderating role of policy expectations

Introduction

Conspiracy narratives are a prevalent narrative framework in risk communication, often provoking public fear and defensive reactions, challenging the healthy interaction between governments and the public in social governance.

Method

Through two survey experiments, this study explores the effects of conspiracy narratives on public trust in government and the moderating role of policy expectations.

Results

In Study 1 (N = 119), conspiracy narratives increased public perceptions of and concerns about the risks of genetically modified (GM) foods. As a result, the public was more likely to expect the government to adopt a strictly restrictive control policy on GM foods. Study 2 (N = 119) further reveals that public trust in the government increases when the public perceives the government as implementing a restrictive policy on GM foods. Conversely, public trust declines if the government is perceived to promote GM foods actively. Policy satisfaction plays a fully mediating role in this process.

Discussion

The study reveals the influence mechanism of conspiracy narratives on government trust, offering both a theoretical basis and practical recommendations for effective government communication and the development of harmonious government-public relations.

Rethinking progress: harmonizing the discourse on genetically modified crops

Genetically modified crops (GM crops) also known as biotech crops are crops that have been altered through genetic engineering techniques and under cultivation for approximately 28 years. By October 2024, over 30 nations have approved the cultivation of GM crops. The global area utilized for biotech crop production has reached 206.3 million hectares. Despite the substantial growth in the cultivation of these crops, debate continues between proponents and opponents of GM crops. In this article, critical concerns and common ground between the arguments of both sides were described. The main issues addressed include the naturalness of GM crops, religious perspectives, beneficial aspects, safety issues, socio-economic impacts and intellectual property rights. We argue that the classification GM crops as unnatural is a claim that lacks scientific reality. In a similar vein, comparing GM technology to the act of playing God is inappropriate. Moreover, the belief that GM crops do not contribute to yield improvements is inconsistent with empirical evidence. Additionally, the claim that foods produced from GM crops are unsafe for human consumption holds unseen concerns that is not on the ground. We have also highlighted the necessity of implementing intellectual property rights that support seed developers for a limited duration without violating farmers' rights. In conclusion, as a consumer has the right to know what they eat, labeling of GM food products fosters transparency and enhance consumer autonomy.

Tissue engineering in the agri-food industry: current status, socio-economic overview and regulatory compliance

The growing global demand for sustainable and safe food is a major challenge that increases the need for advanced alternatives such as tissue engineering (TE). TE offers promising solutions by improving yields, nutritional value and resilience of crops while also producing cultivated meat that reduces the environmental impact of livestock farming. The market potential for TE in meat production is considerable, and significant growth is expected. However, the regulatory framework for these innovations is developing slowly, and approval procedures vary across regions. This overview critically assesses the current applications of TE in the agri-food sector, their socio-economic potential and the regulatory challenges. It emphasises the need for harmonised, flexible and adaptive policies to effectively integrate engineered foods into the market.

Navigating biosafety regulatory frameworks for genetic engineering in Africa: a focus on genome editing and gene drive technologies

Genome editing and gene drive technologies are increasingly gaining attraction in Africa, with researchers exploring their potential applications in agriculture, health and the environment. Acknowledging that robust regulatory frameworks are crucial in facilitating the development and utilization of these technologies, informed decision-making is, however, being impeded by the fragmented information availability and readiness of regulatory authorities on the continent.

Objectives

This study investigates the regulatory frameworks governing genome editing and gene drive technologies in African countries, identifies common regulatory challenges and proposes actionable solutions.

Methods

Primary data were collected through questionnaires and complemented by analysing existing biosafety regulations from online databases and scientific literature.

Results

Our findings suggest that while a few African countries have recently updated their regulatory frameworks, many are still under discussion. Challenges to development and implementation include limited resources, expertise, awareness, and public resistance.

Conclusion

The findings underscore the urgent need for further development in regulatory capacities. By shedding light on these challenges, our study could provide African regulators with valuable insights to guide the formulation of effective regulatory frameworks. Such frameworks are essential for harnessing the potential of genome editing and gene drive technologies while safeguarding human health and the environment in Africa.

Surfactant-mediated bio-manufacture: A unique strategy for promoting microbial biochemicals production

Biochemicals are widely used in the medicine and food industries and are more efficient and safer than synthetic chemicals. The amphipathic surfactants can interact with the microorganisms and embed the extracellular metabolites, which induce microbial metabolites secretion and biosynthesis, performing an attractive prospect of promoting the biochemical production. However, the commonness and differences of surfactant-mediated bio-manufacture in various fields are largely unexplored. Accordingly, this review comprehensively summarized the properties of surfactants, different application scenarios of surfactant-meditated bio-manufacture, and the mechanism of surfactants increasing metabolites production. Various biochemical productions such as pigments, amino acids, and alcohols could be enhanced using the cloud point and the micelles of surfactants. Besides, the amphiphilicity of surfactants also promoted the utilization of fermentation substrates, especially lignocellulose and waste sludge, by microorganisms, indirectly increasing the metabolites production. The increase in target metabolites production was attributed to the surfactants changing the permeability and composition of the cell membrane, hence improving the secretion ability of microorganisms. Moreover, surfactants could regulate the energy metabolism, the redox state and metabolic flow in microorganisms, which induced target metabolites synthesis. This review aimed to broaden the application fields of surfactants and provide novel insights into the production of microbial biochemicals.

'From metabolism to metabolism': holistic considerations on B-vitamin interactions, biofortification, and deficiencies

In the post-Green Revolution era, disparities in dietary access, rising obesity rates, demographic shifts, adoption of plant-based diets, and the impact of climate change collectively contribute to a progressive decline in dietary nutritional value, exacerbating B vitamin deficiencies across both low- and high-income countries. While the prevailing focus of biofortification has been on three micronutrients - provitamin A, iron, and zinc - utilizing conventional breeding, it is imperative to diversify biofortification strategies to combat micronutrient malnutrition. Metabolic engineering, facilitated by biotechnological tools, presents a promising avenue, contingent upon advances in fundamental knowledge, technological innovation, regulatory updates, and sustained public funding. Recognizing the intricate metabolic interplay of B vitamins in plants and humans, a comprehensive 'from metabolism to metabolism' approach is crucial for designing effective biofortification strategies that target multiple vitamins. This holistic perspective also extends beyond individual crops to encompass the entire food chain, a complex socioeconomic ecosystem that necessitates a paradigm shift, prioritizing quality over quantity.

Genome editing in food and agriculture: from regulations to consumer perspectives

Genome editing (GE) has emerged as a technology that could revolutionize food and agricultural production. While its advent has evoked enthusiasm for a more sustainable food system, there exists heterogeneity in regulations and public opinions regarding the technology. This review discusses evidence on the implications of government regulations on GE, and perceptions of genome-edited (GEd) food and related regulations. The review highlights consumers' positive attitude and preference for GEd foods when compared with genetically modified foods, despite the limited awareness and knowledge of GE technology. While policy changes might trigger debates, providing tailored benefits, information to consumers could further improve their attitude toward GE.

Belgian dietitians' knowledge, perceptions and willingness-to-recommend of genetically modified food and organisms

BACKGROUND

Dietitians play a critical role in the public's relationship with food and are often overlooked as an important stakeholder group in the general debate about sustainable food. Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are one type of modern food source that could contribute to a more sustainable food system. This case study is the first to examine the knowledge, perception and willingness-to-recommend (WTR) genetically modified (GM) foods by dietitians in Europe.

METHODS

An online survey was addressed to all members of the Flemish Association of Dietitians (Belgium) in 2021, resulting in a sample of 98 valid responses. Multivariate linear regression included sociodemographic, knowledge, and attitudinal factors as the independent variables to explain dietitians' WTR.

RESULTS

Flemish dietitians had limited knowledge of GMOs; only about half of the GM questions were answered correctly. Most dietitians (53%-76%) would recommend GMOs with positive effects on human nutrition or sustainability, whereas few dietitians (19%-27%) would recommend other GMO applications. Trust in GMO information sources and perceived GM benefits significantly influenced a positive WTR of GM foods. Predominant negative information about GM foods was significantly associated with dietitians' low trust and WTR such foods.

CONCLUSIONS

Countering the predominantly negative portrayal with more neutral and factual information could improve trust, which in turn could positively influence dietitians' perceptions towards GMOs. By further examining the knowledge and perception of dietitians worldwide GMOs and gene-edited products, new insights could be could gathered into the positioning of this underexposed stakeholder group.

The moderating role of perceived health risks on the acceptance of genetically modified food

The public perspective on genetically modified foods (GMFs) has been intensely debated and scrutinized. Often, discussions surrounding GMF tend to revolve solely around the potential health risks associated with their consumption. However, it is essential to acknowledge that public perceptions of genetically modified foods are multifaceted, encompassing environmental concerns, ethical considerations, and economic implications. This paper studies the factors predicting GMF acceptance employing the representative sample of the Czech population (N = 884, aged 18-90 years, M ± SD: 48.17 ± 17.72; 53.40% women, 18.04% with higher education). The research relies on the Behavioral Change Model and the Health Belief Model. We employ hierarchical ordinal regressions to study the effects of information, environmental concerns, perceived health risks, food habits, purchasing habits, and socio-demographics on GMF acceptance. The results suggest that the (un)willingness to purchase GMF is primarily driven by the health risks - the environmental concerns were largely unimportant. The impact of information provision on GMF acceptance proved positive, suggesting information and education to be the main channels of creating public acceptance. The intrinsic interest regarding information related to GMF had an adverse impact on the perception of GMF morality. The benefits of the GMF proved unrelated to the GMF acceptance, indicating the gap in the information campaign. The research provides valuable insights for policymakers, public health professionals, and market researchers to communicate the GMF agenda effectively to the general public.

Processes for regulating genetically modified and gene edited plants

Innovation in agriculture has been essential in improving productivity of crops and forages to support a growing population, improving living standards while contributing toward maintaining environment integrity, human health, and wellbeing through provision of more nutritious, varied, and abundant food sources. A crucial part of that innovation has involved a range of techniques for both expanding and exploiting the genetic potential of plants. However, some techniques used for generating new variation for plant breeders to exploit are deemed higher risk than others despite end products of both processes at times being for all intents and purposes identical for the benefits they provide. As a result, public concerns often triggered by poor communication from innovators, resulting in mistrust and suspicion has, in turn, caused the development of a range of regulatory systems. The logic and motivations for modes of regulation used are reviewed and how the benefits from use of these technologies can be delivered more efficiently and effectively is discussed.

Genome editing for healthy crops: traits, tools and impacts

Crop cultivars in commercial use have often been selected because they show high levels of resistance to pathogens. However, widespread cultivation of these crops for many years in the environments favorable to a pathogen requires durable forms of resistance to maintain "healthy crops". Breeding of new varieties tolerant/resistant to biotic stresses by incorporating genetic components related to durable resistance, developing new breeding methods and new active molecules, and improving the Integrated Pest Management strategies have been of great value, but their effectiveness is being challenged by the newly emerging diseases and the rapid change of pathogens due to climatic changes. Genome editing has provided new tools and methods to characterize defense-related genes in crops and improve crop resilience to disease pathogens providing improved food security and future sustainable agricultural systems. In this review, we discuss the principal traits, tools and impacts of utilizing genome editing techniques for achieving of durable resilience and a "healthy plants" concept.

Genetic modification strategies for enhancing plant resilience to abiotic stresses in the context of climate change

Enhancing the resilience of plants to abiotic stresses, such as drought, salinity, heat, and cold, is crucial for ensuring global food security challenge in the context of climate change. The adverse effects of climate change, characterized by rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns, and increased frequency of extreme weather events, pose significant threats to agricultural systems worldwide. Genetic modification strategies offer promising approaches to develop crops with improved abiotic stress tolerance. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of various genetic modification techniques employed to enhance plant resilience. These strategies include the introduction of stress-responsive genes, transcription factors, and regulatory elements to enhance stress signaling pathways. Additionally, the manipulation of hormone signaling pathways, osmoprotectant accumulation, and antioxidant defense mechanisms is discussed. The use of genome editing tools, such as CRISPR-Cas9, for precise modification of target genes related to stress tolerance is also explored. Furthermore, the challenges and future prospects of genetic modification for abiotic stress tolerance are highlighted. Understanding and harnessing the potential of genetic modification strategies can contribute to the development of resilient crop varieties capable of withstanding adverse environmental conditions caused by climate change, thereby ensuring sustainable agricultural productivity and food security.

The Potential of CRISPR/Cas Technology to Enhance Crop Performance on Adverse Soil Conditions

Worldwide food security is under threat in the actual scenery of global climate change because the major staple food crops are not adapted to hostile climatic and soil conditions. Significant efforts have been performed to maintain the actual yield of crops, using traditional breeding and innovative molecular techniques to assist them. However, additional strategies are necessary to achieve the future food demand. Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat/CRISPR-associated protein (CRISPR/Cas) technology, as well as its variants, have emerged as alternatives to transgenic plant breeding. This novelty has helped to accelerate the necessary modifications in major crops to confront the impact of abiotic stress on agriculture systems. This review summarizes the current advances in CRISPR/Cas applications in crops to deal with the main hostile soil conditions, such as drought, flooding and waterlogging, salinity, heavy metals, and nutrient deficiencies. In addition, the potential of extremophytes as a reservoir of new molecular mechanisms for abiotic stress tolerance, as well as their orthologue identification and edition in crops, is shown. Moreover, the future challenges and prospects related to CRISPR/Cas technology issues, legal regulations, and customer acceptance will be discussed.