Chile Approves First Gene-Edited Wheat in the Americas

Chilean startup Neocrop Technologies, in collaboration with national seed company Campex Baer and Argentina’s Buck Semillas, has developed a gene-edited wheat variety with five to ten times higher dietary fiber content than conventional flour wheat, while maintaining the taste, texture, and quality of white flour. This breakthrough was achieved using CRISPR gene-editing technology, according to Seed World.

On July 25, 2025, Chile’s Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG) officially confirmed that these new wheat lines are not classified as Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs). This landmark decision paves the way for field cultivation without additional regulatory hurdles, making Chile the first country in the Americas to approve gene-edited wheat. The ruling marks a significant step for agricultural biotechnology.

The new wheat variety from Neocrop Technologies retains the characteristics of traditional wheat but promotes healthier diets through its high fiber content. The development addresses low dietary fiber intake in countries like Chile and Argentina, where refined flour products dominate. The project has achieved key milestones, including laboratory validation, a provisional patent filing in 2024, and planned field trials for 2025/2026.

Neocrop Technologies is actively engaging with Argentina’s regulatory body, CONABIA, and plans to expand its efforts to Brazil and the United States. This innovation positions Chile as an emerging leader in food biotechnology, offering new opportunities for farmers and consumers. The project’s success could significantly impact the global wheat market by providing healthier food options.

Tags: GM, wheat, Chile