Leopoldina, scientific academies and DFG recommend a new European genetic engineering law

Against the backdrop of the ECJ ruling regarding organisms created through gene editing as mutations subject to genetic engineering law, the Leopoldina, the scientific academies, and the German Research Foundation have proposed precise changes to European genetic engineering law in a statement. The proposed new regulations affect, on the one hand, the scope of application of the European Genetic Engineering Directives. Specifically, it is proposed that genome-edited organisms be exempted from the scope of genetic engineering law if no alien genetic information is inserted and/or a combination of genetically modified material is present that could also arise naturally or through conventional breeding methods. This should be clarified through an official preliminary review procedure on a scientific basis. Furthermore, a departure from the previous procedural regulatory approach is recommended, particularly with regard to the use of plants. Furthermore, the scientific bodies criticize the fact that European consumers have been given the inaccurate impression that the food available in Europe, including organic products, is largely produced "GMO-free." The statement can be viewed here .