Issue Genetic tools becoming routine across sectors via food acceptance

Summary

The report expects genetic tools could become routine in health, agriculture and manufacturing. If consumers accept them first in the food supply chain, adoption could then spread across more sectors. According to the report, engineering biology has already strengthened crop resilience to pests and climate through advanced breeding and made alternatives such as lab-grown proteins possible. Its plant pests chapter similarly foresees farmers expanding the market for genetically engineered varieties to improve resilience. The report judges that the social benefits of engineering biology can be unlocked safely when backed by public engagement and education. It credits engineering biology research with driving growth in the UK agri-food, health tech and biotech sectors.