Gene editing is an exciting technology with great promise for people, animals and our planet. But with any new technology comes skepticism, and understandably so.

That’s why, as more applications are researched and gene edited products enter the marketplace, it’s imperative that anyone in agriculture and food who fields questions about the technology commit long-term to communicating openly and transparently about it.

First and foremost, it’s important scientists developing gene editing applications for animal protein move forward carefully and responsibly. But without engagement that earns trust, the full potential of gene editing may never be realized.

5 keys to engagement

Traditionally it has been assumed that sound science will result in social acceptance of innovation, but earning trust isn’t about the science. Consumers first want to know that those involved in producing their food care about the same things they do, like growing and raising safe, affordable, nutritious food in a responsible manner that protects and sustains our environment, and assures the highest standards of animal care.

There are five research-based communication approaches recommended by The Center for Food Integrity (CFI) Coalition for Responsible Gene Editing in Agriculture that can serve as a starting point for your conversations and communication around gene editing.

1. Leverage expert spokespeople who are credentialed and relatable, show integrity and share values.

Science leaders, scientists, academic institutions, regulators and farmers are trusted sources of information on new technology, IF they are relatable and make a values-based connection.

2. Connect to gene editing solutions for human health.

Research shows that advancements in human medicine are the strongest entry into conversations about gene editing in food, because most people know someone impacted by a disease for which gene editing could be lifesaving.

“Gene editing shows great promise to cure or prevent diseases in people like certain cancers and sickle cell, and can do the same for animals. For example, gene editing is helping pigs develop resistance to PRRS, a virus that causes animal suffering and often death.”

3. Talk about evolution of genetic improvement, not revolution.

The public is more supportive when gene editing is described within the broader context of genetic improvement in plants and animals, which has a legacy of safe, responsible use spanning several generations.

“Throughout history, farmers have been breeding plants for the best characteristics, like disease resistance and drought tolerance – a process that can take decades. Now, scientists can use gene editing to make more precise, targeted changes to improve plants."

4. Demonstrate benefits and values that align with public interests.

Consumers are generally supportive of technology in food production when its use is positive for the environment, the health of animals and plants, or nutritional content of food.

“Gene editing makes precise, intentional and beneficial changes in the genetic material of animals and plants used in food production, which can improve health, nutrition and our environmental footprint.”

5. Share analogies and visuals that explain science but are not oversimplified.

To some consumers, word processor and “genetic scissors” analogies are too simple for such a complex science.The research shows that comparing gene editing to a house blueprint or an encyclopedia (younger generations associate encyclopedia with Wikipedia) is effective.

“DNA is like a long encyclopedia of information. Scientists can identify the exact page, paragraph and word they want to study. They then can use gene editing tools to make corrections or improvements to specific areas of the genome.”

More details can be found in the coalition’s Gene Editing: Engage in the Conversation guide, which can be accessed at here. It’s an excellent resource that helps shift our conversations from “just the facts” to the values that connect us all. Beginning the conversations now is important so the public feels included and empowered, and gene editing can achieve its full potential.

Gene editing: Are you prepared to engage?

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