Explainer video: Developing and applying detection methods for plants created with ‘new genomic techniques’ (new GMOs)
The technical research project DARWIN will develop, test, and validate no less than 9 new detection methods and new digital solutions for new GMO crops obtained through new genomic techniques (NGTs).
How? The recent explainer video and press release elaborate: “These are the main solutions proposed by DARWIN. Firstly, detection methods for NGT genetic changes in plant products will be validated, and their efficacy will be tested through three realistic scenarios. Next, the consortium will employ AI and bioinformatics to obtain genetic fingerprints of NGT products. Finally, a dataspace will be created to enhance the traceability and transparency of these products.
Why? Currently, the laboratory technologies available to detect genetic engineering changes to living organisms are not working for GMOs that are created using NGTs. So, we do not have the tools to know where these new genomic techniques are and will be used. As we have the right to know what’s in our food, we need the development of adequate detection methods & clear labels. We detail this in our previous article. This matters specifically for GMO-free methods of food production like organic.
Check out the short video for more details!
About the DARWIN project
The DARWIN project is a highly technological project aiming to develop, test, and validate 9 new detection methods for new GMO crops obtained through NGTs from 1 January 2024 to 30 June 2027. In full, this Horizon Europe-funded project wants to “Transition to safe & sustainable food systems through new & innovative detection methods & digital solutions for plant-based products derived from new genomic techniques, under a co-creation approach” between 2024 and 2027.
This is a crucial project for food and farming systems that want to remain GMO-free. So, as IFOAM Organics Europe we are part of the work package ‘Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) Collaborative Stakeholder Ecosystem’. Together with our partners, we will bring together a diverse stakeholder group in a regulatory and policy roundtable. This will result in policy recommendations in 2025 (based on the roundtable’s results) and a workshop with key stakeholders in 2026.
To find out more about the DARWIN research project visit its website and follow it on LinkedIn and X.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency (REA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.