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48. Gene-editing, new genomic techniques – what, why and how they are different?

Published on February 11th, 2026

New genomic techniques have the potential to change the world of crop-growing. So, what are they? Why has European regulation delayed their use and how can they help tillage farmers? In this article, Ewen Mullins, head of crop science at Teagasc, answers some of these questions.

NGT (new genomic techniques) is a term used to cover a range of new crop breeding approaches that can deliver varieties with enhanced performance and/or quality traits in a faster and more precise manner.

Can NGTs deliver for farmers?