Genomic breeding methods are not given a chance to prove themselves
Modern genomic breeding methods are legally classified as genetic engineering – and are therefore effectively blocked in the EU to this day. Yet for decades we have been eating genetically modified plants, just under the label of 'classical mutagenesis.' The new, more precise methods are regulated more strictly than the old ones, even though they are considered scientifically safer. A contradiction that urgently needs to be corrected.
Thursday, December 4, 2025
Modern genomic techniques are considered genetic engineering. That is what the European Court of Justice ruled – with the consequence that plants bred using these methods still cannot be sold in the EU today.
The reality, however, is this: We have been eating genetically modified food for decades, just under a different name. Classical mutagenesis – the targeted alteration of DNA through radiation or chemical agents – has been used since the 1950s. Numerous crops, including organic varieties of wheat, potatoes and carrots, originate from this type of breeding.
Scientifically, it has long been undisputed: classical mutagenesis is genetic engineering. It directly changes the plant’s genome and is, in principle, no different from modern methods – except that the old techniques are less precise and far less predictable. The European Court of Justice confirmed this in 2018 (C-528/16): mutagenesis generally falls under genetic engineering legislation. The only exemption applies to methods with a 'long history of safe use.'
And this is where the inconsistency begins: old mutagenesis is considered safe because it has been used for a long time, even though it causes far more and less controlled genetic changes. The new, more precise methods, however, are denied the opportunity to demonstrate their safety – they are not allowed onto the market in the first place. Yet research is clear: modern genome editing techniques are highly precise, well controlled and often considered safer than classical mutagenesis.
In other words: the effects of classical mutagenesis have been part of our diets for decades – including in organic products. The new, more precise methods could potentially be safer, but are regulated far more strictly simply because they lack a 'long track record.' This is not only illogical but represents a regulatory imbalance that ignores scientific evidence and slows down urgently needed innovation in plant breeding.
Put simply: genetic engineering has long been on our plates – this is confirmed by both science and the ECJ ruling. The unequal treatment of new methods shows how far politics and regulation lag behind reality. It is high time for a clear-eyed reassessment and a correction. The EU has now taken steps in this direction: the new breeding techniques may soon be approved, and their products sold without labelling requirements. It is high time for Switzerland to follow suit.
Sources
Kindly note:
We, a non-native editorial team value clear and faultless communication. At times we have to prioritize speed over perfection, utilizing tools, that are still learning.
We are deepL sorry for any observed stylistic or spelling errors.
Related articles
Genetic scissors for the future – soon in Switzerland too?
Genome editing is seen as a promising way to make agriculture more sustainable and climate-resilient. But Switzerland is hesitant to approve it. A popular initiative even wants to ban it. But what can CRISPR really do?
Bio Suisse rejects modern breeding methods
At their meeting in April 2023, the delegates of Bio Suisse rejected the use of new breeding methods in organic farming. With this decision, the organic association closes itself off from the possibility of becoming more productive and sustainable through modern precision breeding, such as the incorporation of disease tolerance using the CRISPR/Cas gene scissors. As reported by the "Tages-Anzeiger," the decision of the delegates was clear, and there was no real substantive debate on the topic.
What’s Really in Your Shopping Basket
Genetic engineering in your shopping basket? Yes – and far more often than we think. Whether pasta, bread or vegetables: many everyday products come from old mutation breeding techniques that are still considered safe today. High time to clear up some common myths.
No Pig Business: Why Testicle-Free Boars Are a Clear Win for Animal Welfare
New breeding methods are opening up new possibilities in both plant and animal breeding. They allow targeted genetic changes that can make animals more resilient, adaptable, and healthier.
Stagnation instead of progress: Switzerland risks falling behind in new breeding techniques
An overview article in Schweizer Bauer shows how much the new breeding methods are preoccupying farming circles. Once the consultation process on the federal law has been completed, a bill is expected – then it will become clear whether there is actually the political will to approve it.
Biotechnology has only just begun
When Frank Schirrmacher cleared the pages of the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung's arts section on 27 June 2000 to publish the human genome, which had just been deciphered for the first time, letter by letter over six pages, biotechnology came to the attention of the general public for the first time.