UW Madison scientists create THC free hemp with genetic editing

MADISON, Wis. (WKOW) – The hemp industry is facing major uncertainty nationwide, but University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers have developed a breakthrough strain that could protect farmers from potential fallout. The strain, named ‘Badger G’, was created at the Wisconsin Crop Innovation Center.

Badger G is the only gene-edited hemp plant in the U.S. to receive approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The USDA cleared it last year, and this week’s federal push to ban intoxicating hemp products has brought new attention to the strain.

“There’s absolutely no THC in it. The line has got a lot of CBG in it, which is the precursor to the THC,” said Michael Petersen, a senior scientist at the Innovation Center.

Petersen said Badger G is permanently compliant with the Farm Bill’s 0.3% THC limit. If crops test over that percentage in states where THC over that limit is illegal, farmers are forced to destroy the crop.

Petersen said hemp seed is becoming a popular animal feed, but trace THC has created hurdles. He believes Badger G is an ideal solution.

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https://www.wkow.com/news/top-stories/uw-madison-scientists-create-thc-free-hemp-with-genetic-editing/article_baf36e30-a53a-4199-a033-02a04d653d4c.html