Product, not process! Explaining a basic concept in agricultural biotechnologies and food safety

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Food Science
• Social Science

Background:

• Life scientists advocate for evaluating agri-food products based on phenotype (actual characteristics), not the process used.
• Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are often perceived negatively due to their production process.
• Some social scientists argue for a process-based approach in risk assessment for novel food technologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To challenge the validity of a process-based approach in scientific understanding and regulation of agri-food products.
• To highlight the flaws in considering the production method over the final product's characteristics for safety assessment.
• To encourage scientists and communicators to educate the public and policymakers on this distinction.

Main Methods:

• A hypothetical dialogue between a social scientist favoring a process-based risk assessment and scientific experts.
• The experts present arguments refuting the significance of the process in determining the safety and characteristics of agri-food products.
• Focus on new food safety considerations and regulatory frameworks.

Main Results:

• The dialogue demonstrates that a process-based approach to risk assessment is scientifically unsound.
• Phenotypic evaluation is presented as the correct and evidence-based method for assessing agri-food products.
• Arguments are provided to counter the view that the method of production confers inherent risks or properties.

Conclusions:

• The study concludes that regulatory and scientific evaluations of agri-food products must prioritize phenotype over process.
• A call to action for science communicators to correct the misconception that production processes define product safety.
• Emphasizes the need for evidence-based assessments focusing on health effects and actual characteristics of food, feed, and fiber.