Nature Biotechnology, Published online: 05 March 2026; doi:10.1038/s41587-026-03028-0

Site-directed nuclease (SDN) classification into SDN-1, SDN-2 and SDN-3 outcomes is used for regulating genome-edited plant products in some countries. This reductive categorization system fails to cover the breadth of genome editing technologies developed over the past decade and their rapidly approaching commercial use. Here, we argue that, in the context of plant breeding, regulations should focus on the characteristics of the genome editing outcome, rather than specific methods used in the development process. Such a science-based, outcome-focused regulatory approach would future-proof the risk-proportionate oversight of plant breeding innovations and enable a more efficient delivery of improved crop varieties amidst growing concerns of climate change and evolving pests and diseases.