Articles tagged with Genetically Modified Foods
A new method of gene editing allows for the efficient production of non-GMO, genome-edited plants without introducing foreign DNA. The technique uses Agrobacterium-mediated transient expression to enable genome editing in a transgene-free manner.
The International Society of Microbiota and RIKEN will host the prestigious Innovation Awards Gala to celebrate microbiota-driven discoveries. Nominations for the awards close on October 7, 2025, and recognize scientific excellence and translational breakthroughs in microbiota medicine.
A Kobe University team developed a DNA base editing technology that enables precise control over microorganism genetic content without using template DNA from other organisms. They successfully applied this technique to industrially important Lactobacillus strains, creating safer probiotics for people with type 2 diabetes.
Researchers developed gene-edited lettuce with significantly higher levels of β-carotene, zeaxanthin, and ascorbic acid without compromising plant growth. This breakthrough highlights the potential of gene editing to combat micronutrient deficiencies and improve dietary quality.
The Asilomar conference set the groundwork for evidence-based safety guidelines, but regulations hinder scientific innovation. A new focus issue in Trends in Biotechnology explores how genetic modification is regulated.
A cohort study of Canadian children found that high ultraprocessed food consumption during early childhood is associated with obesity development, particularly in males. The study suggests that targeted public health initiatives can help reduce ultraprocessed food intake and prevent obesity.
Researchers found that brief scientific literacy interventions can undermine conspiracy beliefs, particularly those built on faulty reasoning. These interventions were most effective against novel conspiracies and among high-conspiracy groups.
A recent study found that over 90% of Mexican consumers would be willing to pay a premium of up to 73% for non-genetically modified products, including chicken, eggs, and tortillas. The ban on genetically modified corn could have significant impacts on US farmers who rely heavily on Mexico as their second-largest importer.
Researchers propose a method called electro-agriculture that can produce food without sunlight, reducing the need for agricultural fields by 94%. The method uses a solar-powered chemical reaction to convert CO2 into acetate, which is then used by genetically engineered plants to produce energy and carbon.
Researchers are developing soybeans that can handle extreme weather conditions, allowing farmers to maintain yields under pressure. By studying plant adaptation strategies, scientists aim to create more resilient soybean varieties.
Researchers found that a refutational approach can help overcome misinformation, leading to fewer misconceptions and improved emotional responses. The study tested students' knowledge of fluoridation and found that those who read an article with a refutation had more positive emotions toward the subject.
A genome study has identified regional adaptations in American chestnut trees, informing restoration efforts and climate resilience. The research provides guidance for conserving genetic diversity across the Appalachian region, with a focus on preserving the most genetically diverse southern population.
Researchers have discovered the gene responsible for producing a unique type of chlorophyll in marine algae. This breakthrough could lead to improved crop yields on less land, making it a key step towards achieving a more sustainable food supply. The study also demonstrated that a land plant can produce this specific type of chlorophyll.
Researchers used CRISPR to modify a tomato gene, resulting in reduced water consumption without affecting crop quality. The discovery holds implications for basic scientific knowledge and could help increase plant yields in dry conditions.
A new study by University of California Riverside researchers found that high-fat diets affect not only obesity and colon cancer but also the immune system, brain function, and potentially COVID-19 risk. The study, which analyzed genetic changes in mice fed different types of fat, showed that polyunsaturated fatty acids in soybean oil ...
The PLOS Biology special issue explores plant engineering to combat climate change, from ancient breeding techniques to genome engineering. The collection highlights strategies for enhancing climate-resilience in crops, including microbiome manipulation and synthetic biology.
Scientists have genetically modified potatoes and tomatoes to produce betacyanin, a pigment with anti-inflammatory properties. The transgenic vegetables demonstrated enhanced accumulation of the pigment, which showed improved effects in reducing inflammation in macrophage-like cells and murine models of colitis.
New research from the University of Sheffield reveals genetically modifying rice to reduce stomata can make it more salt-resistant and survive in environments with high salt levels. This adaptation could help tackle food insecurity caused by climate change.
A study published in The BMJ found that people who believe in conspiracies and reject the covid-19 vaccine are more likely to endorse mythical causes of cancer than non-conspiracists. However, awareness of actual causes of cancer is generally higher among these groups.
A recent study found that science misinformation about genetically modified crops reached a quarter of a billion people globally. The majority of articles containing GMO-related keywords contained false information, especially on human health concerns, which had the highest readership.
Recent research suggests that racial prejudice within communities predicts the militarization of local police departments. In contrast, communicating scientific consensus appears to be an effective way to change factual beliefs about contested science topics. Additionally, studies have found that happy people tend to overestimate their...
The University of Missouri has earned an $8 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to expand its National Swine Resource and Research Center. The center will support research using genetically modified pigs to study human diseases, with a focus on therapies that can be translated from pig models to humans.
Researchers found that heightened awareness around GMO-related topics leads to an increase in demand for non-GMO products. The shift in consumer preferences was quantified as a 36% increase in new non-GMO product adoption tied to legislative activity, suggesting the role of indirect awareness effects.
A study found that mandatory labeling of genetically engineered foods in Vermont led to a 5.9% decrease in sales of GE-labeled products and a 2.5% increase in sales of non-GE products. However, after the law was repealed, sales of GE-labeled products increased by 6%, suggesting improved attitudes toward these products.
Researchers at UCLA create edible particles that help lab-grown meat with natural muscle-like texture, potentially revolutionizing the food industry. The process could be scaled up to produce large amounts of meat quickly and cheaply.
A recent study analyzing traditional and social media trends on biotechnology found a significant drop in the salience of the GMO issue between 2018 and 2020. The research suggests that misinformation about GMOs is losing its ability to persuade, even on social media.
Researchers at RIKEN CSRS have developed a non-transgenic method to modify plant genes using a bioactive molecule spray, which can be used to improve crop yield and resistance to pests. The technique has shown promising results in improving economically desirable quality traits in crops.
Researchers from Hokkaido University have proposed a framework to clarify the distinction between genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and genome-edited organisms (GEOs). The framework considers scientific, ethical, and social factors to determine whether an organism is a GMO or GEO. The proposal aims to enhance regulatory reliability...
A new study reveals that GMO labeling significantly affects consumer behavior, reducing demand for GM foods and influencing willingness to pay. The research finds that mandatory presence-focused labeling has a stronger impact than voluntary absence labeling, making consumers more sensitive to the GMO attribute and price information.
Researchers at Dartmouth College have identified proteins PYE and ILR3 that help protect plants from damage during iron deficiency. These proteins enable the plant to optimize its light protection mechanisms, allowing it to continue photosynthesizing without suffering tissue damage.
A survey of Singaporeans found that those who dislike GM food tend to also reject nano-enabled food, highlighting the potential for a spillover effect in attitudes towards new technologies. The study's findings have implications for policymakers seeking to promote novel food technologies in Singapore.
Researchers found that feelings of preparedness in one area can lead to more confident thoughts about unrelated topics, even if those thoughts are not based on actual knowledge. Participants who were told they had to prepare for bad news later showed more positive attitudes towards research funding proposals than those who didn't prepare.
Several studies investigate how social media shapes consumers' perceptions of food technologies, including GMOs, and the resulting disinformation. Researchers analyze online articles, social media engagement, and brain responses to infographics about food technologies, highlighting the need for effective communication campaigns.
A Cornell University study found that non-GMO labeled produce experiences a significant boost in demand when accompanied by a GMO label on other products. The 'halo effect' suggests consumers perceive non-GMO labels as more trustworthy and desirable.
Researchers warn that framing cultured meat as a high-tech innovation can lead to negative attitudes and reduced consumer demand. The study found that those who encountered cultured meat through this frame were less likely to consider it safe, healthy, or environmentally friendly.
A recent study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that people's existing knowledge about genetically modified food is a significant determining factor of their attitudes towards it. Learning the underlying science leads to more positive attitudes, a greater willingness to eat them, and a lowered perception of GM...
A recent survey by Michigan State University found that the oldest Americans are most focused on reducing food waste, with 88% of all respondents taking steps to reduce it. Among those who make efforts, 71% try not to purchase excess food and 71% often consume food before it spoils.
A new study found that a conversion message by British environmentalist Mark Lynas, who turned from an opponent to an advocate of GM crops, had a greater impact on public attitudes than a direct advocacy message. The study suggests that people's minds may be more easily changeable on this issue.
A study published in Nature Human Behaviour found that people who strongly oppose genetically modified foods often believe they know more about the topic than they actually do. Despite a scientific consensus on GM food safety and nutritional benefits, many opponents think they are knowledgeable on the subject.
A survey of 2,537 US adults found that roughly half believe the average person faces a serious health risk from food additives over their lifetime. Similarly, about half think genetically modified foods are worse for one's health. Women and those with low science knowledge tend to express more concern about these issues.
A study from the University of Vermont found that mandatory labeling in Vermont improved consumer attitudes toward genetically modified food, with opposition falling by 19%. The simple disclosure reduced fear and increased transparency, allowing consumers to make informed decisions.
A new study from the American Association for the Advancement of Science found that mandatory labeling of genetically engineered (GE) foods in Vermont led to a 19% reduction in opposition to these products. By providing transparency, labels may alleviate public concerns about GE food safety.
A recent study by Professor Jesper Lassen found no correlation between public reservations about genetically modified foods and parliamentary debate. Politicians focus on benefits and risks, ignoring the moral and ethical dimensions that concern citizens most.
A new analytical tool developed by University of British Columbia researchers provides accurate estimates of genetically modified pollen spread to non-modified crops. This enables the calculation of optimal separation distances to minimize cross-pollination, benefiting both crop-growers and policymakers.
A new study from the University of Adelaide found that women's attitudes towards genetically modified (GM) foods are influenced by multiple factors, including science background and values. Women with scientific backgrounds used evidence to support their stance, but others saw 'unknown' risks, leading to a lack of trust in science.
A new survey by Pew Research Center reveals a divide among Americans regarding the health effects of organic produce, genetically modified foods, and eating healthy. While some believe organics are healthier, others see no difference or consider GM foods worse for health.
A global GMO crop ban would raise food prices by 0.27-2.2% and add nearly a billion tons of CO2 to the atmosphere. This would lead to negative environmental consequences, including forest and pasture conversions that release stored carbon.
A Cornell University study found that consumers are more supportive of GM labeling when they believe the company considered public input. The research bolsters procedural justice theory, suggesting transparency builds trust and legitimacy in decision-making processes.
Researchers at Michigan State University found that Chinese farmers are adapting to shrinking domestic soybean fields by planting more profitable crops like corn, but this shift has environmental implications. Meanwhile, pockets of resilience in soybean cultivation suggest potential solutions for China's burgeoning food demand.
A new study by the University of Vermont found that consumers do not perceive GMO labels as warning signs, contradicting proponents of a controversial labeling law. The study revealed that 60% of respondents were opposed to GMO technology in food production and 89% desired labeling, despite the label having no direct impact on opposition.
China and Taiwan have enhanced their food safety laws to tackle food fraud and protect consumers. New regulations require food businesses to register and implement good hygiene practices, while Taiwan also introduces labeling requirements for genetically modified foods.
A new Pew Research analysis finds that public attitudes on climate change and energy policy are strongly intertwined with political party affiliation and ideology. However, politics play a more modest role on views about biomedical science, food safety, and space.
A lack of regulatory definition for natural foods has led to increased consumer lawsuits, forcing companies to reformulate products. The FDA and FTC have previously abandoned efforts to define natural products due to limited progress.
A survey of 1,117 U.S. consumers reveals that most are willing to buy nanotech or genetically modified foods if they offer health or safety advantages. The study identifies four consumer groups: rejecters, averse consumers, price-oriented shoppers, and benefit-seekers who prioritize nutrition and food safety.
A panel of international experts will discuss the pros and cons of genetically modified (GM) crops in improving European food security. Recent research shows that consumers are increasingly concerned about GM foods, with 11% checking labels for information on GM content.
Researchers extracted biochemicals from genetically modified tomatoes and compared them to non-GM varieties. The study found no significant differences overall, but did identify a difference related to fruit ripening. This approach has potential for use in breeding programs and addressing consumer concerns about GM foods.
Research found that people with math anxiety struggle to comprehend messages about genetically modified foods, while those with high math skills and confidence can better understand. The study highlights the importance of improving math skills and building confidence in math abilities.
Researchers have created a test called MACRO that can flag about 97% of known commercialized modifications, making it easier for policymakers to monitor genetically modified (GM) foods. The new method combines two well-known genetic methods and can be easily expanded to include future GM crops.
A PLOS ONE study has confirmed that Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) technology is suitable for routine analysis of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food, feed, and seeds. The study found that ddPCR is more accurate and reliable than real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) for quantifying GMOs, especially at low levels.
A food science expert argues that genetically modified foods pose no special risks to consumers or the environment. The overregulation of GM crops wastes resources and diverts attention from real food safety issues.