Gene editing is changing how we grow food. But why?
Traditional plant breeding methods can take a long time – sometimes a decade or more to get the desired result. Gene editing tools make the process of improving plants much more efficient.
Here’s where gene editing really shines:
Economic impact
Gene editing can boost yields and produce more from every acre.
Stronger crops. Smarter farming.
Lower food costs
It’s simple supply and demand. When we can grow more food with fewer inputs, we increase what’s available. More abundance means more stability and lower costs for consumers.
A stronger, more reliable food system
Gene editing helps Canadian growers produce more resilient crops here at home. That’s more food for Canadians and people around the world.
Supporting farmers, growing the sector
Better tools mean better outcomes. Gene editing helps farmers reduce losses, improve efficiency, and stay competitive, fueling growth across Canada’s entire agri-food sector.
Health and consumer benefits
Gene editing can increase beneficial nutrients, boosting vitamins, minerals, or healthy fats in staple crops.
Safer food, better nutrition.
Fewer natural allergens
Some plants naturally produce compounds that can cause allergies. With gene editing, scientists can precisely switch off or adjust the genes responsible, so the final food is less likely to trigger allergic reactions or intolerance.
Safety and credibility
Plant breeding has evolved significantly over the last two centuries. Building on this knowledge, gene editing can remove undesirable characteristics in crops, supporting safer, more reliable food.
Safe. Recognized. Creating better crops.
Safety recognized by Canada and others
Countries around the world such as Canada, Australia, the U.S., Japan, the EU and many others have all recognized the safety, and benefits, of gene editing.
Trusted safety for all crops
All crops are subject to the same Government of Canada health and safety standards no matter how they are developed.
Climate & sustainability
Gene editing strengthens climate resilience by improving drought tolerance, heat and disease resistance, and enabling crops to use less water and land.
Less waste. More resilience. Reduced emissions.
Reduced food waste
Gene editing helps reduce food waste by extending the shelf life of fruits, vegetables, and other crops. By precisely tweaking genes that control ripening, aging, and spoilage, we can make crops last longer after harvest and during transportation.
Smarter resource use
Gene editing can help reduce emissions from agriculture, capture carbon, and make more efficient use of inputs like water and soil nutrients. Improving how crops grow and perform under real-world conditions, it allows farmers to produce more with less, lowering environmental impact while maintaining productivity.
Advanced climate resilience
By improving resistance to pests, disease, and climate stress, gene editing helps future-proof crop protection and supports a stable, secure food supply. The result is a more resilient agricultural system that can continue feeding communities despite mounting environmental pressures.