Researchers to Improve Wheat Tolerance to Heat Using CRISPR

Jul 23, 2024

A research team at South Dakota State University (SDSU) led by Professor Wanlong Li is set to modify the genetic code of wheat plants using gene editing to make them more tolerant to heat stress.

To grow wheat, the ideal temperatures according to NASA, vary between 70F and 75F, but some varieties, like winter wheat, can grow in temperatures as low as 40F. However, when temperatures exceed 90F, heat stress can cause significant yield loss, and this is a growing concern as the Great Plains of North America, also called the "wheat basket of the world" is predicted to see more frequent heat waves and higher average summer temperatures in the face of a changing climate.

Heat tolerant wheat varieties are needed, but developing heat tolerance in wheat is hindered by complicated genetics mechanisms.

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Video: When is Sustainable Packaging Coming in the Canadian Agri Food Industry? 3 Critical Perspectives

Canada’s regulatory landscape on single-use plastics is complex but a recent ruling by the Federal Court of Appeal sided with the government’s intent to eliminate single-use plastics. What does this mean for the Canadian agri-food industry? How can companies find the right balance between regulatory compliance and implementing costly alternative solutions? What are retailers and consumers saying about sustainable packaging? This webinar features Joshua Goodman, Head of Corporate Sustainability, Sobeys; Marie-Anne Champoux-Guimond, Director of Sustainability, Keurig Dr Pepper Canada and Glenford Jameson, Canadian Food Lawyer, G.S. Jameson and Company

This 60-minute webinar brings together three industry leaders to examine the opportunities, challenges, and realities of the path forward. In this session, you will gain insights into:

•Canada’s regulatory roadmap and timeline on eliminating single-use plastics

•Current end-of-life solutions for plastics and alternative packaging solutions

•The need to have a corporate strategy that aligns with reality at the retail shelves

•How major brands and retailers are pivoting

•Supply chain considerations

•Common misconceptions