Biotech Updates

The United Kingdom has officially launched a new era for crop science as the Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Act 2023 took effect on November 13, 2025. This landmark legislation introduces a new regulatory framework for precision-bred plants in England, distinguishing them from traditional genetically modified (GM) crops. These regulations concern plants developed using techniques such as CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing to make small genetic changes that could have occurred naturally or through conventional breeding, but which can now be achieved faster and with greater accuracy.

CRISPR Fungus: Protein-Packed, Sustainable, and Tastes Like Meat

Researchers have successfully used CRISPR gene editing technology to create a fungi strain that is highly efficient, more nutritious, and significantly more sustainable than its natural counterpart. The fungus Fusarium venenatum already stands out for its meat-like flavor and texture, leading to its approval for food use in several countries. This breakthrough, published in the journal Trends in Biotechnology, addresses the need for better, more environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional animal agriculture, which accounts for about 14% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

University of Waterloo Researchers Turn to Biotechnology to Combat Plastic Pollution

Research teams at the University of Waterloo collaborate to tackle the growing plastic pollution crisis using synthetic biology, microbial engineering, and engineering. The researchers aim to identify and develop new strategies to break down and upcycle plastic waste and promote a more sustainable and circular plastics economy.

Philippine Regulators Work on Refining Risk Assessment Report on GM Plant and Plant Products

A three-day writeshop on Updating the Risk Assessment Report (RAR) Template for Risk Assessment for Genetically Modified Plant and Plant Products was conducted on 19-21 November at B Hotel in Quezon City. Regulators from the Department of Agriculture, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and experts from partner institutions are working together on updating the RAR form to align with guidelines and standards on risk assessment set by Codex Alimentarius, Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), and Agriculture and Food System Institute (AFSI).