Japan: MAFF Updates Genome Editing Handling Procedures for Feed and Feed Additives

On April 20, Japan's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (MAFF) amended the handling procedures for feed and feed additive products derived from the crossbreeding of genome edited varieties previously notified to MAFF with conventional varieties, other previously notified genome edited varieties, and genetically engineered products for which MAFF has granted feed safety approval. MAFF no longer expects developers of these products to undergo MAFF’s consultation process for genome edited feed and feed additive products. MAFF made this revision following a public comment period that closed on March 5.