Canadian regulatory perspectives on genome engineered crops

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Biotechnology
• Regulatory Science

Background:

• Innovative plant breeding techniques, including CRISPR/Cas9, emerged around 2014, promising agricultural advancements.
• The regulation of products from these new techniques is a critical factor for their future potential.
• Existing regulatory systems struggle to keep pace with scientific innovation, particularly concerning genetically modified (GM) crops.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the international debate surrounding the regulation of new plant breeding techniques.
• To assess Canada's regulatory approach to these technologies using GM apples and potatoes as case studies.
• To discuss other crop variety approvals and those in the regulatory pipeline.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of the international discourse on regulating new plant breeding techniques.
• Case study examination of Canadian regulatory approvals for GM apples and GM potatoes.
• Review of other crop variety approvals and regulatory processes.

Main Results:

• The classification of new breeding techniques—as GM or conventional—significantly impacts their regulatory acceptance.
• European Union rejection is likely if classified as GM, while conventional classification offers a "bright future."
• Canada's regulatory system is evaluated through specific product approvals.

Conclusions:

• The regulatory framework for new plant breeding techniques is crucial for their adoption and success.
• Divergent international regulatory approaches create challenges for global agricultural innovation.
• Canada's approach provides insights into managing novel breeding technologies.