Abstract
Organic farming prohibits the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) inasmuch as their genetic material has been altered in a way that does not occur naturally. In actual fact, there is a conventional identity between GMOs and transgenic organisms, so that genetic modification methods such as somatic hybridization and mutagenesis are equalized to conventional breeding. A loophole in this system is represented by more or less innovative genetic engineering approaches under regulatory discussion, such as cisgenesis, oligonucleotide-directed mutagenesis, and antisense technologies, that are redefining the concept of GMOs and might circumvent the requirements of the GMO legislation and, indirectly, of organic farming.
Highlights
Organic farming (OF) systems are conceived to produce food through the integration of cultural, biological, and mechanical practices aimed at preserving natural resources, biodiversity animal welfare, and eventually human health
As genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are organisms “with the exception of human beings, in which the genetic material has been altered in a way that does not occur naturally by mating and/or natural recombination” (Directive 2001/18/EC [1]) and many concerns have been raised about their safety and impact on human health and the environment, the use of genetically engineered crops and products obtained from or by GMOs are prohibited by all the organic farming legislations and standards worldwide
If the definition of GMOs implies the employment of modern biotechnologies to obtain a novel combination of genetic material
Summary
Organic farming (OF) systems are conceived to produce food through the integration of cultural, biological, and mechanical practices aimed at preserving natural resources, biodiversity animal welfare, and eventually human health. As GMOs are organisms “with the exception of human beings, in which the genetic material has been altered in a way that does not occur naturally by mating and/or natural recombination” (Directive 2001/18/EC [1]) and many concerns have been raised about their safety and impact on human health and the environment, the use of genetically engineered crops and products obtained from or by GMOs are prohibited by all the organic farming legislations and standards worldwide. If the definition of GMOs implies the employment of modern biotechnologies to obtain a novel combination of genetic material Some of the most promising techniques still under evaluation will be discussed in the following paragraphs
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
