Cibus CEO Explains Key Distinction Between GMO and Gene-Edited Crops

Dr. Beetham outlined the background of the EU’s decision to modernize seed regulations and where the process stands today, and its impact on global agriculture and food security.

BRUSSELS, Belgium (RFD-TV) — European farmers may soon have better access to innovative seed technologies as the European Union advances with new regulations for gene-edited crops, a move aimed at easing restrictions and fostering a more unified agricultural market across the region.

Dr. Peter Beetham, Interim CEO of Cibus, joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report to explain what these regulatory changes mean for producers and the global ag industry. Beetham began by clarifying the distinction between gene editing and traditional GMO technology — an important point for both farmers and consumers who increasingly want to know how their food is grown.

In his interview with RFD-TV News, Dr. Beetham outlined the background of the EU’s decision to modernize seed regulations and where the process stands today, noting that harmonizing regulations can open doors for faster trait development and greater farmer access worldwide.

According to Beetham, this change has the potential to significantly impact global agriculture by accelerating the availability of improved seeds designed to resist pests, fight crop diseases, and withstand climate stress.

Cibus’s advanced breeding technology enables the development of traits in under a year, a leap that Beetham says can help farmers respond more quickly to emerging challenges in their fields. He shared real-world examples of Cibus traits in crops such as soybeans, rice, and canola that have improved yields and reduced production costs for growers.

Looking ahead, Beetham emphasized that gene editing will play an increasingly critical role in food security, helping farmers adapt to a changing climate and meet the world’s growing demand for sustainable and resilient crops.

Related Stories
Tyson’s Nebraska plant closure and falling Cattle on Feed numbers send cattle markets tumbling. Analysts warn of tighter supplies, weak margins, and rising global competition.
Farm legal expert Roger McEowen reviews the history of the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule and outlines how shifting definitions across multiple administrations have created regulatory confusion for landowners.
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) estimates that the move will save farmers and ranchers $2.5 billion each year. The group warns that new methods for calculating the adverse-effect wage rate would result in lower pay for foreign workers.
Gary Hall, co-founder of Hollywood Impact Studios Rehabilitation, joined the program to discuss using agriculture to provide opportunities and mentorship for at-risk youth in Southern California.
Mike Steenhoek of the Soy Transportation Coalition discusses industry reactions to the proposed Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern merger, the Surface Transportation Board’s review process, and current conditions on the Mississippi River.
Richard Gupton of the Agricultural Retailers Association explains a new resource designed to help farmers comply with ESA-related pesticide label requirements.
Sen. Roger Marshall discusses the Senate’s unanimous passage of the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act and what expanded milk options could mean for students and dairy farmers. Industry groups say it is a win for student nutrition and dairy producers.
Experts say farmers and ethanol producers would benefit from a risk-based ILUC system that protects forests without relying on speculative modeling.

Agriculture Shows
Crop yield champions David Hula from Virginia and Randy Dowdy from Georgia are back for another season with the aim of schooling more growers across the country in their winning ways.
“Texas Agriculture Matters” is a fun, informative look at the role of agriculture in our daily lives. The show utilizes the trademark wit and wisdom of its host Commissioner Sid Miller — an 8th-generation farmer-rancher and 12-time World Champion rodeo cowboy — to explore a new Texas ag-related topic each week.
From barnyards and back roads to metros and highways, Simply Southern TV on RFD-TV explores all of Alabama to bring you the best stories on farming, gardening, forestry, rural living, and youth in agriculture.
In the first week of each month, “Down Home Virginia,” produced by the Virginia Farm Bureau, airs its half-hour program. Other states’ Farm Bureaus featured on different weeks include Texas, Arkansas, Indiana, Illinois, Tennessee, Idaho, and New York, and news from the American Farm Bureau from Washington, D.C.
Created by former Louisiana Farm Bureau PR Director and former host Regnal Wallace, “This Week in Louisiana Agriculture,” is one of the state’s longest-running TV programs.