Non-safety Assessments of Genome-Edited Organisms: Should They be Included in Regulation?

• DOI: 10.1007/s11948-020-00222-4
• Publication Date: 2020-10-12T16:03:58Z
• Authors: Bjørn Kåre Myskja; Anne Ingeborg Myhr
• Keywords: Warrant

Abstract This article presents and evaluates arguments supporting that an approval procedure for genome-edited organisms food or feed should include a broad assessment of societal, ethical environmental concerns; so-called non-safety assessment. The core analysis is the requirement Norwegian Gene Technology Act sustainability, societal impacts genetically modified organism be assessed prior to regulatory novel products. gives overview how this has been implemented in practice, demonstrating such feasible justified. Even situations where are considered comparable non-modified terms risk, technology may have—in addition social benefits—negative warrant assessments kind required Act. main reason disruptive character genome editing technologies due their potential novel, ground-breaking solutions agriculture aquaculture combined with economic framework shaped by patent system. Food fundamental good life, biologically culturally, which warrants stricter procedures than what other industries, at least countries like Norway strong tradition national control over agricultural markets breeding programs.