News
Proposed coalition to address gene editing concerns
The Center for Food Integrity (CFI) wants to build public trust in the use of gene editing in agriculture and food production and is developing a coalition to help. CFI CEO Charlie Arnot says since the GMO debate began there is a growing demand for accurate information on gene editing technology and its benefits.
“It can improve animal health and well-being, it can improve resistance to disease and avoid painful procedures increase desirable traits, and do so in a way that replicates what nature could do in many cases.” says Arnot.
The proposed Coalition for Responsible Gene Editing in Agriculture will bring together industry experts from several agricultural sectors to develop guidelines and address areas of concern like food safety, sustainability, animal well-being, and environmental factors. Arnot says transparency in technological research will be a key factor in building public trust.
“You really can’t build trust in the food industry today without increasing transparency. We know it’s a fundamental expectation of consumers. So in making sure we’re transparent in what we do as well as transparent in how the technology is used will be absolutely crucial in earning and maintaining consumer trust.” says Arnot.
Last year, Science Magazine reported gene editing technology has the potential to improve animal health by building disease resistance and can increase agricultural productivity and sustainability to meet growing food demands.
Audio: Charlie Arnot, CEO Center for Food Integrity
Gene editing technology seems to be a game changer for the U.S. livestock industry, if used transparently and appropriately. Consumers have been asking many more questions than they used to regarding animal health products and procedures as well as how the animals are treated when in the care of the farmer. Its all good because the more people know and see–the more they understand that farmers are using technology appropriately and using sensible and ethical standards to raise these animals. In asking more questions about how animal health products are being used–and who is checking up on what is happening on the farm, this new gene editing technology would allow for animals to be born with a a genetic strand that potentially carries a virus or disease that is snipped so it cannot express itself later in the animals life cycle. In other words, the animal will not get a virus or a disease that would even require treatment with an animal antibiotic or anti viral or vaccine? The developers of this technology recognize that this NOVEL-and that they have a responsibility to lead the transparency discussion. That is indeed NOVEL! Kudos to CFI!