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Background PCR-based genetic testing of agricultural products and foods is widely used for detecting various analytical targets such as genetically modified organisms and food allergens. However, it is difficult to obtain accurate genetic testing results from processed foods because DNA is fragmented by heat and pressure during food processing. Thus, we previously developed an analytical method to quantitatively evaluate the degree of DNA fragmentation for the purpose of QC of genetic testing for processed foods. Objective Our previous analytical method requires four PCR primer sets, resulting in high reagent costs and heavy analytical workloads. Therefore, we attempted to develop an easy-to-use test kit for quantifying the degree of DNA fragmentation and to evaluate its analytical performance. Methods To simplify the analysis procedure, we used only two primer sets. In addition, no-fragmentation control templates were prepared to obtain stable measurement results. The precision of the simplified analysis was evaluated through blind tests between laboratories. Results It was confirmed that plant species and extracted DNA concentrations had little effect on analysis with the newly developed test kit. In addition, the analytical values indicating the degree of DNA fragmentation exhibited small variability between laboratories. Conclusion We confirmed the high practicality of the developed test kit. Because DNA fragmentation in cells is a universal phenomenon, we anticipate that the test kit will be used not only for QC of genetic testing but also for food testing, medical diagnostics, and other applications in a range of fields. Highlights The newly developed test kit enables quantitative evaluation of the degree of DNA fragmentation in a simple manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study seeks to understand how individuals engage with misinformation and corrective messages about genetically modified (GM) food safety on social media. Based on a 2 (expert source vs. social peer source) x 2 (high social endorsements vs. low social endorsements) between-subject experiment (N = 264), this study examined the role of source cues, social endorsement cues, and prior attitudes in influencing individuals' social media engagements. Results found that individuals selectively engaged with misinformation and corrective messages based on their prior attitudes. Individuals with more negative prior attitudes toward GM foods were more likely to share, click 'likes,' add a positive comment, and were less likely to add a negative comment to the misinformation message that doubts GM food safety. Conversely, individuals with more positive prior attitudes toward GM foods were more likely to share, click 'likes,' and were less likely to add a negative comment to the corrective message that supports GM food safety. Individuals were more likely to endorse a corrective message when it was attributed to an expert (vs. social peer) source. However, social media endorsements had no significant impact on individuals' social media engagement with the corrective message. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The food enzyme β‐galactosidase (β‐d‐galactoside galactohydrolase; EC 3.2.1.23) is produced with the genetically modified Bacillus licheniformis strain DSM 34099 by Kerry Group Services International, Ltd. (KGSI). The genetic modifications do not give rise to safety concerns. The food enzyme is free from viable cells of the production organism and its DNA. The production strain met the requirements for the qualified presumption of safety (QPS) approach. The food enzyme is intended to be used in two food manufacturing processes. Dietary exposure was estimated to be up to 7.263 mg total organic solids/kg body weight per day in European populations. Given the QPS status of the production strain and the absence of concerns resulting from the food enzyme manufacturing process, toxicity tests, other than an assessment of allergenicity, were considered unnecessary by the Panel. A search for the identity of the amino acid sequence of the food enzyme to known allergens was made and one match with a food allergen from kiwi fruit was found. The Panel considered that a risk of allergic reactions upon dietary exposure to this food enzyme, particularly in individuals sensitised to kiwi fruit, cannot be excluded. Based on the data provided, the Panel concluded that this food enzyme does not give rise to safety concerns, under the intended conditions of use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The food enzyme glucan 1,4‐α‐maltohydrolase (4‐α‐d‐glucan α‐maltohydrolase; EC 3.2.1.133) is produced with the genetically modified Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain LALL‐MA+ by Danstar Ferment AG. The genetic modifications do not give rise to safety concerns. The food enzyme is free from viable cells of the production organism and its DNA. It is intended to be used in the processing of cereals and other grains for production of baked products. Dietary exposure was estimated to be up to 0.014 mg TOS/kg body weight per day in European populations. Given the QPS status of the production strain and the absence of concerns resulting from the food enzyme manufacturing process, toxicity tests were considered unnecessary by the Panel. A search for the identity of the amino acid sequence of the food enzyme to known allergens was made and four matches were found, three with respiratory allergens and one with an allergen from mosquito (injected). The Panel considered that the risk of allergic reactions upon dietary exposure cannot be excluded, but the likelihood is low. Based on the data provided, the Panel concluded that this food enzyme does not give rise to safety concerns, under the intended conditions of use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The food enzyme lysophospholipase (2‐lysophosphatidylcholine acylhydrolase, EC 3.1.1.5) is produced with the genetically modified Trichoderma reesei strain DP‐Nyc81 by Genencor International B.V. The genetic modifications do not give rise to safety concerns. The food enzyme is free from viable cells of the production organism and its DNA. It is intended to be used in the processing of cereals and other grains for the production of glucose syrups and other starch hydrolysates. Since residual amounts of food enzyme–total organic solids are removed during these food manufacturing processes, dietary exposure was not calculated and toxicological studies were considered unnecessary. A search for the identity of the amino acid sequence of the food enzyme to known allergens was made and no match was found. The Panel considered that the risk of allergic reactions upon dietary exposure cannot be excluded, but the likelihood is low. Based on the data provided, the Panel concluded that this food enzyme does not give rise to safety concerns, under the intended conditions of use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The food enzyme asparaginase (l‐asparagine amidohydrolase; EC 3.5.1.1) is produced with the genetically modified Aspergillus niger strain ASP by DSM Food Specialties B.V. The genetic modifications do not give rise to safety concerns. The food enzyme was considered free from viable cells of the production organism and its DNA. The food enzyme is intended to be used in the prevention of acrylamide formation in foods and in the processing of yeast and yeast products. Dietary exposure to the food enzyme‐total organic solids (TOS) was estimated to be up to 0.792 mg TOS/kg body weight (bw) per day in European populations. Genotoxicity tests did not indicate a safety concern. The systemic toxicity was assessed by means of a repeated dose 90‐day oral toxicity study in rats. The Panel identified a no observed adverse effect level at the highest dose tested of 1038 mg TOS/kg bw per day, which when compared with the estimated dietary exposure, resulted in a margin of exposure of at least 1311. A search for the similarity of the amino acid sequence of the food enzyme to known allergens was made and no match was found. The Panel considered that the risk of allergic reactions upon dietary exposure cannot be excluded, but the likelihood is low. Based on the data provided, the Panel concluded that this food enzyme does not give rise to safety concerns, under the intended conditions of use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gouernment-compelled commercial disclosures are not unfamiliar to consumers. Common labels include nutrition facts and ingredient information. The National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard, which took full force at the start of 2022, is of a different nature. The new law requires all manufacturers, all importers, and certain retailers of bioengineered foods to disclose on the food's packaging that it has been produced with bioengineering technology . Euen so, a large su)ath of thepublic is ignorant Of "bioengineering's" true meaning and bioengineering technology's true quality. The politically charged and fact-lacking debate on bioengineered foods renders this standard an impermissible coercion of speech in violation of the First Amendment. If stricter regulation of potentially harmful food products is truly desired, a more appropriate target for compelled disclosure is pesticide use. Using science communication principles and factual information on the outcomes of bioengineered foods as a backdrop, this Note argues against the labeling of bioengineered foods and for alternative pesticide disclosures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The productivity of animal agriculture in developing countries will need to be substantially increased in order to satisfy increasing consumer demand, to more efficiently utilize scarce resources and to generate income for a growing agricultural population. Biotechnology has the potential to improve the productivity of animals via increasing in growth, carcass quality and reproduction, improved nutritional quality, safety of food, improved health and welfare of animals and reduced waste through more efficient utilization Agricultural biotechnology is one area of application of biotechnology involving applications to agriculture and the application has long been source of innovation in production and processing, extremely impacting the sector. Agricultural biotechnology has been practiced for a long time, as people have sought to improve agriculturally important organisms by selection and breeding. This includes plant breeding to raise and stabilize yields; to improve resistance to pests, diseases and abiotic stresses such as drought and cold; and to enhance the nutritional content of foods. Biotechnology is being used to develop low-cost disease-free planting materials for crops such as cassava, banana and potato and is creating new tools for the diagnosis and treatment of plant and animal diseases and for the measurement and conservation of genetic resources. Modern biotechnology has the potential to provide new opportunities for achieving enhanced livestock productivity in a way that alleviates poverty, improves food security and nutrition and promotes sustainable use of natural resources. The major cause of poor livestock productivity in tropical regions of the world is inadequate nutrition. Low-quality forages are a major component of ruminant diets in the tropics. The lack of quality of ruminant feeds is caused by a high content of lignified crop residues and mature grasses, usually associated with a low content of nitrogen, phosphorus and sulfur. The shortage of feed in most developing countries and the increasing cost of feed ingredients mean that there is a need to improve feed utilization. Animal feeds and feeding practices are being changed by biotechnology to improve animal nutrition and to reduce environmental waste. The ultimate goal of using biotechnology in animal nutrition is to improve the plane of nutrition through the use of enzymes to improve the availability of nutrients from feed and to reduce the wastage of the feed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As educators, we often seek to engage students' prior knowledge to help them learn new and potentially difficult science content. However, sometimes our experiences with the world lead us to create misconceptions that run counter to the scientific consensus. Refutational texts have been shown to be more effective at changing individuals' misconceptions compared to traditional (i.e., expository) texts. Sometimes, conceptual change materials might include irrelevant but interesting pictures geared toward increasing engagement or positive affect while learning. These are referred to as seductive pictures, and although they are intended to promote the situational interest of readers, they may hinder learning since they might cause cognitive overload. The current study sought to investigate the effects of text structure and seductive pictures on individuals' knowledge of genetically modified foods, situational interest, and cognitive loads. We found significant learning advantages for the refutational text groups and significant disadvantages for the seductive pictures groups. Additionally, the individuals who were exposed to seductive pictures demonstrated higher levels of extraneous cognitive load than those who were not. Implications and limitations of the present study are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information on the state of the environment is important to achieve the objectives of the European Green Deal, including the EU's Biodiversity Strategy for 2030. The existing regulatory provisions for genetically modified organisms (GMOs) foresee an obligatory post-market environmental monitoring (PMEM) of potential adverse effects upon release into the environment. So far, GMO monitoring activities have focused on genetically modified crops. With the advent of new genomic techniques (NGT), novel GMO applications are being developed and may be released into a range of different, non-agricultural environments with potential implications for ecosystems and biodiversity. This challenges the current monitoring concepts and requires adaptation of existing monitoring programs to meet monitoring requirements. While the incorporation of existing biodiversity monitoring programs into GMO monitoring at the national level is important, additional monitoring activities will also be required. Using case examples, we highlight that monitoring requirements for novel GMO applications differ from those of GM crop plants previously authorized for commercial use in the European Union. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetically modified (GM) food products have been commercialized and promoted in China. Despite assurances from the China Ministry of Agriculture that certified GM food products are safe to consume, most consumers are reluctant to purchase GM foods. Given the benefits of GM foods, this study investigates Chinese consumers' purchase intentions and purchase behavior toward GM foods and the associated influential factors. The theory of planned behavior with the consumers' demographics and product-related factors supports our study. Data were collected from 477 Chinese consumers across 26 provinces in China. The study uses binary logit regression and ordinal logit regression to estimate the relationship among variables. The results reveal that Chinese consumers' awareness, products' available information, trust in sellers, long product life, GM foods' taste and consumers' experience in buying GM food products are positively related to their willingness to buy GM foods. The number of family members, the habit of checking GM labels and a preference for nutrition value are associated with Chinese consumers' lower intention to buy GM foods. We demonstrate that product variety and trust are two determinants that could change Chinese consumers' attitudes toward buying GM foods. Our study contributes new insights into Chinese consumers' decision to purchase GM foods at the national scale. We consider a wide range of factors not tested in previous studies. Further, the study's findings provide a better understanding of consumers' GM foods purchases and purchasing behavior toward the Chinese government and entrepreneurs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

More and more start-up companies around the world are developing processing technologies to produce ingredients that imitate, for instance, proteins usually found in milk obtained from cows. These 'lab-grown ingredients' must undergo a pre-market authorization either according to Regulation (EC) 1829/2003 on genetically modified food and feed or according to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283 on Novel Foods, depending on whether the new product contains host-DNA protein or not. In both cases, the name of the new ingredient must comply with horizontal and vertical EU Regulation. This article aims to give an insight into some of the technologies used as well as the regulatory requirements for the placing on the market of lab-grown ingredients. Regarding the labelling of such ingredients as well as the final products incorporating such ingredients, the authors recall the specific European rules on the absolute protection of dairy terms laid down in Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 establishing a common organisation of the markets in agricultural products. Accordingly, lab-grown ingredients and products incorporating them are not allowed to use any milk and dairy designations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Processed foods containing soybean or maize are subject to labeling regulations pertinent to genetically modified(GM)foods in Japan. To confirm the reliability of the labeling procedure of GM foods, the Japanese standard analytical methods(standard methods)using real-time PCR technique have been established. Although certain DNA extraction protocols are stipulated as standard in these methods, the use of other protocols confirmed to be equivalent to the existing ones was permitted. In this study, the equivalence testing of the techniques employed for DNA extraction from processed foods containing soybean or corn was conducted. In this study, the equivalence testing of the techniques employed for DNA extraction from processed foods containing soybean or maize was conducted. The silica membrane-based DNA extraction kits, GM quicker 4 and DNeasy Plant Maxi Kit(Maxi Kit), as an existing method were compared. GM quicker 4 was considered to be equivalent to or better than Maxi Kit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reviews the factors affecting consumers' willingness to pay (WTP) for genetically modified (GM) and functional foods, as the newly introduced food products in developing countries, and organic foods. Related articles were searched in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Science Direct by using the key words "WTP", "GM food", "functional food", and "organic food" until 2023. Based on the results of the existing studies, the main factors that affect consumers' WTP for GM foods are "product information and labels". For functional foods, "displaying a health claim, consumers' awareness and information, variety, and consumers' trust" are factors that affect WTP. "Consumers' satisfaction, product logos and price, rural–urban differences, and socio-demographic variables" are factors affect WTP for organic foods. One factor that strengthens consumers in making good choices is better knowledge and information about GM food. Food producers and stakeholders should take the importance of these factors seriously, as they could affect consumers' WTP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New sources of proteins are essential to meet the demands of the growing world population and evolving food trends. Assessing the allergenicity of proteins in novel food (NF) poses a significant food safety regulatory challenge. The Codex Alimentarius Commission presented an allergenicity assessment protocol for genetically modified (GM) foods, which can also be adapted for NF. Since no single laboratory test can adequately predict the allergenic potential of NF, the protocol follows a weight‐of‐evidence approach, evaluated by experts, as part of a risk management process. Regulatory bodies worldwide have adopted this safety protocol, which, among other things, promotes global harmonization. This review unravels the reliability and various motivations, terms, concepts, and approaches of allergenicity assessments, aiming to enhance understanding among manufacturers and the public. Health Canada, Food Safety Commission JAPAN, and Food Standards Australia New Zealand were surveyed, focusing on the European Food Safety Authority and the US Food Safety Administration for examples of scientific opinions regarding allergenicity assessments for novel and GM foods, from 2019 to 2023. According to our findings, current regulatory allergenicity assessments for NF approval primarily rely on literature reviews. Only a few of the NF assessments proactively presented additional tests. We recommend conducting bioinformatic analyses on NF when a panel of experts deems that there is insufficient prior scientific research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquaculture is a growing industry worldwide, but it faces challenges related to animal health. These challenges include infections by parasites, bacteria, and viral pathogens. These harmful pathogens have devastating effects on the industry, despite efforts to control them through vaccination and antimicrobial treatments. Unfortunately, these measures have proven insufficient to address the sanitary problems, resulting in greater environmental impact due to the excessive use of antimicrobials. In recent years, probiotics have emerged as a promising solution to enhance the performance of the immune system against parasitic, bacterial, and viral pathogens in various species, including mammals, birds, and fish. Some probiotics have been genetically engineered to express and deliver immunomodulatory molecules. These promote selective therapeutic effects and specific immunization against specific pathogens. This review aims to summarize recent research on the use of probiotics in fish aquaculture, with a particular emphasis on genetically modified probiotics. In particular, we focus on the advantages of using these microorganisms and highlight the main barriers hindering their widespread application in the aquaculture industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dietitians play a critical role in the public's relationship with food and are often overlooked as an important stakeholder group in the general debate about sustainable food. Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are one type of modern food source that could contribute to a more sustainable food system. This case study is the first to examine the knowledge, perception and willingness‐to‐recommend (WTR) genetically modified (GM) foods by dietitians in Europe. Methods: An online survey was addressed to all members of the Flemish Association of Dietitians (Belgium) in 2021, resulting in a sample of 98 valid responses. Multivariate linear regression included sociodemographic, knowledge, and attitudinal factors as the independent variables to explain dietitians' WTR. Results: Flemish dietitians had limited knowledge of GMOs; only about half of the GM questions were answered correctly. Most dietitians (53%–76%) would recommend GMOs with positive effects on human nutrition or sustainability, whereas few dietitians (19%–27%) would recommend other GMO applications. Trust in GMO information sources and perceived GM benefits significantly influenced a positive WTR of GM foods. Predominant negative information about GM foods was significantly associated with dietitians' low trust and WTR such foods. Conclusions: Countering the predominantly negative portrayal with more neutral and factual information could improve trust, which in turn could positively influence dietitians' perceptions towards GMOs. By further examining the knowledge and perception of dietitians worldwide GMOs and gene‐edited products, new insights could be could gathered into the positioning of this underexposed stakeholder group. Key points: This novel study is the first to investigate knowledge and perception of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) among European dietitians.Perceptions of genetically modified (GM) benefits and trust in GMO information sources were identified as key determinants of dietitians' willingness‐to‐recommend GM foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The release of novel genetically modified (GM) virus applications into the environment for agricultural, veterinary, and nature-conservation purposes poses a number of significant challenges for risk assessors and regulatory authorities. Continuous efforts to scan the horizon for emerging applications are needed to gain an overview of new GM virus applications. In addition, appropriate approaches for risk assessment and management have to be developed. These approaches need to address pertinent challenges, in particular with regard to the environmental release of GM virus applications with a high probability for transmission and spreading, including transboundary movements and a high potential to result in adverse environmental effects. However, the current preparedness at the EU and international level to assess such GM virus application is limited. This study addresses some of the challenges associated with the current situation, firstly, by conducting a horizon scan to identify emerging GM virus applications with relevance for the environment. Secondly, outstanding issues regarding the environmental risk assessment (ERA) of GM virus applications are identified based on an evaluation of case study examples. Specifically, the limited scientific information available for the ERA of some applications and the lack of detailed and appropriate guidance for ERA are discussed. Furthermore, considerations are provided for future work that is needed to establish adequate risk assessment and management approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Families increasingly raise questions about the use of genetically modified organism (GMO)-containing food products. These products are widely found in the US food supply but originate from a narrow list of crops. Although GMO technology could be used to increase the micronutrient content of foods, this does not occur in the United States; instead, GMO technology has been used to make crops resistant to chemical herbicides. As a result, herbicide use has increased exponentially. The World Health Organization's International Agency on Research for Cancer has determined that glyphosate, an herbicide widely used in producing GMO food crops, is a probable human carcinogen. Measurable quantities of glyphosate are detected in some GMO foods. Families who wish to minimize GMO food products can do so by focusing on a dietary pattern of primarily whole, plant-based foods while minimizing ultra-processed foods. Pediatricians play a vital role in their efforts to minimize fear-based messaging and support families through shared decision-making. Pediatrician awareness of GMO labeling can guide individualized conversations, particularly that non-GMO labeling does not indicate organic status and that increased cost of some non-GMO foods, especially if also organic, may limit this choice for many families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Derivatives of biotech or genetically modified (GM) crops are widely used for food, feed, or environmental release. In the present study, 31 samples of food and feed products of corn, soybean, and rice, randomly selected from the local market of Kuwait, were screened for the presence of potential genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Conventional (qualitative) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test was used to amplify the sequences of the GMO regulatory elements, the cauliflower mosaic virus 35S promoter (p35S), and the Agrobacterium nopaline synthase terminator (Tnos). Obtained results demonstrated the presence of GMO sequences in 6 out of 21, 1 out of 5, and 2 out of 5 products derived from corn, soybean, and rice, respectively. The study also reports the detection of GMOs in corn-derived animal feed products for the first time. To date, Kuwait has no routine certified system to regulate the import of biotech crops. This study highlights the need to establish legislation on GMOs and to develop a reliable regulation and labeling system for imported biotech crops and their derivatives in Kuwait. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Societal Impact Statement: A diverse portfolio of genetically engineered food crops, as well as animal livestock and fish, are currently being developed and commercialized. To ensure their contributions to long‐term sustainability, a broad range of environmental, health, ethical, and societal parameters should be used in their evaluations. This paper proposes a set of parameters to evaluate the sustainability of genetically engineered food and agriculture products and discusses mechanisms to improve their governance and oversight. With such holistic evaluations, genetic engineering applications that are deemed beneficial to sustainable agriculture could be identified in an effort to foster sustainability. Summary: To achieve international sustainable development goals, food and agricultural production need to rely on sustainable and resilient practices. Traditional breeding as well as the use of new agricultural technologies, including genetic engineering and gene editing, have the potential to help achieve sustainable agrifood production. Although numerous oversight mechanisms exist to guarantee the secure and sustainable advancement and utilization of genetically engineered agrifoods, the majority of these mechanisms heavily depend on a narrow set of parameters to assess risks and safety concerning human health and nontarget organisms. However, a more comprehensive range of parameters should be considered to promote environmental and social sustainability in a more holistic manner. This Opinion article argues that to achieve a more sustainable agrifood production that relies on genetic engineering, governance systems related to new agrifood biotechnologies should incorporate a broader array of environmental, health, ethical, and societal factors to ensure their sustainability in the long‐term. To facilitate this process, we propose a set of parameters to help evaluate the sustainability of agrifoods that rely on genetic engineering. We then discuss major challenges and opportunities for formalizing sustainability parameters in US governance policy and decision‐making systems. Overall, this work contributes to further developing a more comprehensive assessment framework that aims to minimize potential risks and maximize potential benefits of agrifood biotechnology while also fostering sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are an important nexus of biotechnology, agriculture, and research. GMOs have gained popularity because of their potential to address global food insecurity. However, the widespread adoption of GMOs has sparked debates and controversies. This study collected data on the threats and effects of the GMO ban and the status of implementation of Biosafety Act and Cartagena Protocol on biosafety in Kenya. A cross-sectional survey was used with 216 participants sampled purposively and 16 key informants interviewed in a qualitative survey with triangulation of data from a scoping literature review. Fifty-seven percent of the respondents indicated GMOs and genetically modified (GM) foods are a solution to food security in Africa. A majority believe that the introduction of GMO technology and the use of GM food is beneficial (52.3%). Fifty-five percent of the respondents indicated that GM foods are safe. Most respondents (>90%) indicated that there is a low threat of GMO technology on the environment, human health, and animal health. The respondents (54.3%) agreed there is good adherence to the Cartagena Protocol. The correlation between awareness of the Cartagena Protocol on biosafety and views on whether there are adequate legal and regulatory frameworks was r = 0.4, indicating a weak but positive relationship between the two. Respondents who reported that the legal and regulatory frameworks were adequate were, therefore, likely (r = 0.4) to be aware of the Cartagena Protocol. There was a moderate positive correlation (r = 0.67) on views that GM food is a solution to food insecurity. Understandably, the relationship between GM food health concerns and GM food as safe was moderately negative (r = −0.4591). The findings are important in addressing gaps in the current GMO regulations and implementation aimed at increasing awareness of GMO technology as well as informing policy on biotechnology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most scientists claim that genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in foods are safe for human consumption and offer societal benefits such as better nutritional content. However, many consumers remain skeptical about their safety. Against this backdrop of diverging views, the authors investigate the impact of different GMO labeling policy regimes on the products consumers choose. Guided by the literature on negativity bias, structural alignment theory, and message presentation, and based on findings from four experiments, the authors show that consumer demand for GM foods depends on the labeling regime policy makers adopt. Both absence-focused ("non-GMO") and presence-focused ("contains GMO") labeling regimes reduce the market share of GM foods, with the reduction being greater in the latter case. GMO labels reduce the importance consumers place on price and enhance their willingness to pay for non-GM products. Results indicate that specific label design choices policy makers implement (in the form of color and style) also affect consumer responses to GM labeling. Consumer attitudes toward GMOs moderate this effect—consumers with neutral attitudes toward GMOs are influenced most significantly by the label design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The main objective of the research was to identify the factors, including gender and generation, which affect the decision-making process of purchasing and consuming organic, functional, and GMO foods. Design/methodology/approach: The research instrument was a survey questionnaire administered through the CAWI method using Google forms. The survey was conducted in spring 2023 among a group of 194 respondents in Gdynia, Sopot and Gdansk in the Pomeranian Voivodeship (Northern Poland). To select the respondents for the survey sample, the snowball sampling technique was used. They also acknowledged the inherent risk factors associated with conducting an interview using the CAWI method. The interview questionnaire consisted of thematic blocks including scales on: subjective self-assessment of health and diet, attitudes towards organic food, functional food, GMOs and health and health values of food. Findings: The assessment of respondents' attitudes towards different types of food: organic, functional and GMO foods, as well as health and health values of food, showed mostly ambivalent attitudes of respondents in the subject studied. Research limitations/implications: The research carried out has certain limitations. The identification of factors influencing the attitudes of consumers belonging to generations X, Y, Z towards organic, functional and GMO food, as well as the health and health values of food, was carried out using a snapshot sample of the inhabitants of Gdynia. The results of the survey are therefore not representative of the entire Polish population and should be interpreted with caution. Practical implications: The results of this study can be used as a basis for discussion and consideration of the development of intelligent food systems using information and communication technologies (ICT). These systems will provide consumers (Generations X, Y, Z) with knowledge about the range and quality of organic, functional and GMO foods and help to meet the nutritional needs of societies. Social implications: The research conducted is part of health risk management and health promotion in the Polish population. Originality/value: The results of the pilot study indicate that respondents' knowledge of the nutritional value and safety of organic, functional and GMO products is very low. Changing respondents' attitudes from ambivalent to positive towards organic and functional foods will lead to an expansion of the range of foods consumed and minimise the risk of developing noncommunicable diseases, including metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trust in science and scientists underlies public support for social and environmental issues, from taking action on climate change to preventing the spread of viruses. Nationally representative Australian survey data show that public trust in university research is higher than that conducted in other institutions. As sources of information, public trust in scientists is considered across potentially polarising and relatively uncontroversial fields of science, with trust varying considerably according to the type of science examined. Public trust is highest in vaccine science and weather forecasting, and lowest for GM crop science, while climate science and forest management fall in between. Social and political background variables are important correlates of trust in science. Younger, tertiary educated, politically progressive Australians are most trusting. Greens party identifiers and environmentalists are more likely than other respondents to trust all types of science examined here—including GM crop science—while institutional trust is positively associated with trust in scientists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: This investigation provides an important insight into Eurasian consumers' food safety beliefs and trust issues influenced by the COVID‐19 pandemic. An online survey was conducted in 15 European and Asian countries involving more than 4000 consumers. RESULTS: It has confirmed that different socioeconomic characteristics, cultural aspects and education levels shape food safety perceptions within Eurasian countries. The COVID‐19 pandemic influenced their beliefs and trust in food safety, which is relatively low on average. However, it is significantly higher for European consumers (especially European Union ones) compared to their Asian counterparts. Both Asian and European respondents agreed that food fraud and climate changes represent a food safety issue. However, European consumers were less concerned regarding the food safety of genetically modified foods and meat and dairy analogs/hybrids. Asian consumers were, to a greater extent, worried about the risk of getting COVID‐19 from food, restaurants, food retail establishments and home food deliveries. CONCLUSION: Eurasian consumers have put their greatest extent of trust, when food safety assurance is concerned, into food scientists and food producers holding a food safety certificate. Broadly, they are uncertain to what extent their federal governments and food inspectors are competent, able and efficient in ensuring food safety. Higher education of Eurasian consumers was followed by increased food safety confidence in all parts of the food chain. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The term new genomic techniques (NGTs) is an umbrella term used to describe a variety of techniques that can alter the genetic material of an organism and that have emerged or have been developed since 2001, when the existing genetically modified organism (GMO) legislation was adopted. The analytical framework used to detect GMOs in Europe is an established single harmonized procedure that is mandatory for the authorization of GM food and feed, thus generating a reliable, transparent, and effective labeling scheme for GMO products. However, NGT products can challenge the implementation and enforcement of the current regulatory system in the EU, relating in particular to the detection of NGT products that contain no foreign genetic material. Consequently, the current detection methods might fail to meet the minimum performance requirements. Although existing detection methods may be able to detect and quantify even small alterations in the genome, this does not necessarily confirm the distinction between products resulting from NGTs subject to the GMO legislation and other products. Therefore, this study provides a stepwise approach for the in silico prediction of PCR systems' specificity by testing a bioinformatics pipeline for amplicon and primer set searches in current genomic databases. In addition, it also empirically tested the PCR system evaluated during the in silico analysis. Two mutant genotypes produced by CRISPR-Cas9 in Arabidopsis thaliana were used as a case study. Overall, our results demonstrate that the single PCR system developed for identifying a nucleotide insertion in the grf1-3 genotype has multiple matches in the databases, which do not enable the discrimination of this mutated event. Empirical assays further support this demonstration. In contrast, the second mutated genotype, grf8-61, which contains a -3 bp deletion, did not yield any matches in the sequence variant database. However, the primer sequences were not efficient during the empirical assay. Our approach represents a first step in decision making for analytical methods for NGT detection, identification, and quantification in light of the European labeling regulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given that the number of genetically modified (GM) maize events that have been announced as having undergone safety assessment procedures in Japan is increasing yearly, more information is needed about their actual recent domestic distribution in Japan. In this study, we investigated whether current Japanese official qualitative and quantitative methods (the current official methods) for GM maize can comprehensively target events in domestically distributed maize. For samples with the identity-preserved (IP) handling system and non-IP samples from the United States (US) and non-IP samples from Brazil, we performed event-specific real-time PCR targeting 25 authorized single GM maize events in addition to the current official methods. According to our results, 15 events targeted by the current official methods were detected, but insect-resistance (IR) Event5307 and herbicide-tolerant (HT) DAS40278, not targeted by the current official methods, were detected in the US (one out of 5 lots) and Brazilian (four out of 5 lots) non-IP samples, respectively. Nevertheless, a survey of recent GM maize acreage in recent years has revealed that more than 95％ of the acreage in US maize is occupied by HT or IR/HT stacked events, and that more than 95％ of the acreage in Brazilian maize is occupied by IR or IR/HT stacked events. Because the current official methods can target all stacked events related to Event5307 and DAS40278, the only undetectable events are the single Event5307 and DAS40278, whose production is estimated to be less than 5％ of the total production in the producing country. Therefore, we conclude that the current official methods for the labelling of GM maize should be maintained in view of practicability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to investigate genetically modified food labeling effects on dietary restrained consumers' perception and purchase intention based upon various labels and food type – whole versus processed. Design/methodology/approach: A 2 (food type: whole vs processed) × 2 (product label: genetically modified organism [GMO] vs nongenetically modified organism [non-GMO]) research design was used in two steps. In the first step, the authors distributed 1,000 surveys, of which 858 surveys were used, and in the second step, the authors distributed 1,000 surveys and were able to use 891 surveys. Findings: Results show that respondents with higher levels of dietary restraint have higher levels of perceived healthfulness. In addition, respondents with higher perceived healthfulness levels have a higher level of purchase intention for whole/GMO products, whole/non-GMO products, processed/GMO products and processed/non-GMO products. Moreover, the results show that individuals have higher purchase intention for whole/non-GMO than the whole/GMO products, whole/GMO than the processed/non-GMO products and processed/non-GMO than the processed/GMO products. Research limitations/implications: A future longitudinal study with assigned tracking numbers is suggested. Given that four different blocks were randomized, comparing data among individual participants would be interesting, as the ability to compare responses would be feasible among the four separate blocks. Originality/value: The results of this study may assist the government in policy development, food manufacturers in labeling techniques used and consumers by increasing transparency and information availability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent gene-editing technologies are heralded by proponents as a revolution for developing gene-edited foods (GEFs) while critics demand increased governance and scrutiny of potential societal impacts. Governance of GEFs is different in the United States, where GEFs are entering the market, and Europe, which restricts GEF development. Definitive regulations for governing GEFs are not yet solidified in either region. We identify and compare how English-language media in the United States and Europe portray potential risks, benefits, and regulation of GEFs, and we explore how these portrayals may reflect their regulatory environments. Results show that the regions similarly prioritize benefit frames that emphasize the social and scientific progress GEFs may bring, and few articles express skepticism about potential benefits. Comparing samples across regions exposes differences between Europe and the United States in the risk and benefit portrayals and in governance initiatives. Both regions prioritize policy risks that are counter to their current oversight regimes: the US media sample focused on GEFs being underregulated while the European sample emphasize risks of too much regulation. This may demonstrate the power of media to reflect and even cultivate public opinion and may influence future policy revisions within these distinct regulatory environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In New Zealand, a genetically modified (GM) organism means any organism where genes or other genetic material have been modified by in vitro techniques. This includes New Breeding Technologies (NBT) such as gene editing. The aim here is to (a) examine the importance of consumer attitudes towards food produced from GM plants or from animals fed GM feed and (b) consider whether consumer attitudes would reduce the demand and acceptance of food produced by New Zealand pastoral farmers if GM forages were included in animal feed. Published surveys indicate that consumers were willing to purchase GM foods if they cost less than non-GM foods, although the magnitude of this discount varies across countries, the type of genetic modification and how it affects the food product. While there will always be a proportion of consumers against the use of GM in food production, the published evidence would suggest that the use of GM plants in New Zealand for food production will have no long-term deleterious effects in overseas markets. From a regulatory view point, the focus should be on regulating the benefit-risk issues associated with the end-product of genetic modification rather than the processes used in their development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. The debate surrounding the labeling of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) has largely shifted from whether to label to understanding the various reasons behind supporting or opposing such labeling. Materials and methods. This paper studies factors influencing attitudes towards GMO labeling employing a representative sample of the Czech population (N=884). We examine the impact of information about genetically modified foods (GMFs), environmental concerns, perceived health effects, dietary habits, factors considered important when purchasing, and sociodemographic characteristics on GMO labeling preferences in the framework of ordinal regression analysis. Results and discussion. Our findings reveal that almost one third of the respondents is not familiar with genetically modified foods (GMF). Another third confirm that they are familiar with the GMF, but does not know what it refers to. Almost eighty percent of the respondents do not express interest in GMF. On the other hand, the results suggest that the health concerns and the level of interest and information about GMO significantly predict the propensity to check GMO labels and the belief that the GMO products should be labelled. The current subjective state of health was not related to the attitudes to GMO labelling. Environmental considerations, such as the subjective effect of food production on the environment and the current environmentally conscious behavior (recycling and environmental waste management at home) positively predicted the need for labelling and the propensity to check labels. Additionally, individual dietary habits, such as shopping habits showed to affect the subjective proportion of GMO products the respondent eats. The results will be interested to marketing specialists and policy makers. Conclusion. This research contributes to understanding the multifaceted dynamics underlying public attitudes toward GMO labeling and provides valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders in the ongoing debate about genetically modified products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study takes the scientific discussion about genetically modified food on Zhihu as an example, using the method of social network analysis to explore the interactions between Chinese scientists and the public online. The findings indicate that both scientists and non-scientists are inclined to interact with users with a similar identity. Cross-group interactions seem to be hard to achieve on Zhihu. Furthermore, compared with non-scientists, scientist users tend to hold significantly stronger digital social capital than non-scientists on Zhihu. It is suggested that the knowledge sharing network has not fully achieved the goal of effectively promoting equally science dialogue in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the political conflicts surrounding the commercial release of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in Brazil, specifically focusing on the controversy surrounding the Roundup Ready (RR) soybean in the late 1990s. The author analyzes the conflicts through the lenses of distributive issues, scientific uncertainty, and labeling policies. The book provides insights into the debates and alliances formed between pro and anti-GMO groups in Brazil. While the translation of the book from Portuguese to English may result in some incoherence, it offers a comprehensive examination of the controversies surrounding GMOs in Brazil. [Extracted from the article]

Purpose: YouTube is one of the most popular media sharing platforms that facilitates both professionals and lay people to participate in dissemination of knowledge and opinions. Its wide-reaching impact allows both top-down and bottom-up flow of information between experts and lay audience. With a vast proportion of Americans obtaining health-related information digitally, the purpose of this study was to describe the content of 100 most viewed YouTube videos in the English language, specific to genetically modified foods (GMFs). Methods: Using the search terms “genetically modified foods” the URLs and metadata for 100 English YouTube videos with the highest viewership were curated. Each video was viewed, and dichotomously coded for the absence or presence of ten content categories. Descriptive statistics, percentages of categorical variables and independent one-tailed t-tests (α=.05) were conducted to assess the statistical effect of the absence or presence of these categories on the number of views and likes garnered by the videos. Results: Cumulatively, the 100 videos observed received 65,536,885 views and 1,328,605 likes. Only 7% of the videos were created by professionally credentialed individuals or organizations. More than 90% of the sampled videos described GMFs with an example, 50% mentioned their role in alleviating hunger, and 65% mentioned ecological concerns attributed to GMFs. Conclusions: Our results underscore the need for health professionals to increase their digital presence on online media sharing platforms such as YouTube, and capitalize on its pervasiveness as potential conduits of accurate scientific information to equip consumers make evidence-based, informed decision regarding GMFs.

Misinformation has always existed, but it became a major preoccupation during the COVID-19 pandemic due to its ability to affect public health choices, decisions, and policy. In their article, "Misinformation in the media: Global coverage of GMOs 2019–2021" (GM Crops & Food, 17 Nov 2022), Mark Lynas et al. characterise critics of agricultural genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and their associated pesticides as purveyors of "misinformation". They draw an equivalence between critics of agricultural GMOs and people who make false claims about climate change, COVID-19, and vaccines. We examined their main claims on these GMOs—for example, that there is a scientific consensus that they are safe for health and the environment—in the light of the scientific evidence and public discussion on this topic. We found that their claims are biased and misleading and ignore or omit crucial evidence. We conclude that based on the evidence provided, Lynas et al. article can itself be classed as misinformation and could therefore mislead the general public as well as the scientific community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose a framework for fitting multivariable fractional polynomial models as special cases of Bayesian generalized nonlinear models, applying an adapted version of the genetically modified mode jumping Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm. The universality of the Bayesian generalized nonlinear models allows us to employ a Bayesian version of fractional polynomials in any supervised learning task, including regression, classification, and time-to-event data analysis. We show through a simulation study that our novel approach performs similarly to the classical frequentist multivariable fractional polynomials approach in terms of variable selection, identification of the true functional forms, and prediction ability, while naturally providing, in contrast to its frequentist version, a coherent inference framework. Real-data examples provide further evidence in favor of our approach and show its flexibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants require essential nutrients for maintaining normal physiological, biochemical, and molecular functions. Plasma membrane-localized nutrient transporters play key roles in acquiring and allocating plant nutrients. Extensive studies have been performed on the functional characterization of key plant nutrient transporters in the past decades. Crystal structures of a few plant nutrient transporters and bacterial or fungal homologs were solved, which helped to predict the key residues and transport mechanisms of plant nutrient transporters. Site-directed mutagenesis and yeast complementation studies have also identified functional residues. This review presents a comprehensive list of the functional residues of various macro- and micro-nutrient transporters involved in acquiring and redistributing nutrients in the plant. We have also analyzed the functionally important residues of various plant nutrient transporters with bioinformatics tools. We then draw insights on the possible application of CRISPR/Cas tools to edit key residues to improve nutrient transport and agronomical performance. Utilization of genome editing tools like CRISPR could help develop DNA-free GM crops for quicker approval for field cultivation, contributing to food security amidst global climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]