So-called "regenerative" farming is gaining traction as a method of sustainable food production. Does it live up to the hype it receives from politicians and reporters? Genetically engineered bacteria can be turned into cancer-killing Trojan horses that evade the defenses of tumor cells. Thanks to gene editing, banana-flavored beer may be coming to a brewery near you.

Join geneticist Kevin Folta and GLP contributor Cameron English on episode 192 of Science Facts and Fallacies as they break down these latest news stories:

* Viewpoint: ‘Regenerative’ is replacing ‘organic’ as the latest green farming fad. Here’s why the reality falls far short of the hype

As consumer interest in sustainability explodes, policymakers and food companies are beginning to push "regenerative" farming as a weapon against pollution and climate change. The problem? Regenerative agriculture is little more than organic farming dressed in new marketing language. Contrary to the favorable news coverage, regenerative growing methods tend to exclude low-toxicity pesticides and genetically engineered seeds that improve farm efficiency. The result is lower crop yields and a larger environmental footprint.

* ‘Sending a Trojan horse into cancer cells’ Can this genetically-engineered bacteria stop tumors in their tracks?

We've heard it before. A cure for cancer is just around the corner, headline after headline has declared for years on end. While these pronouncements have been exaggerated, novel therapies for different cancers are indeed coming online. In one recent instance, researchers engineered bacteria that produce a tiny non-living cell that "mingles" with tumors. This nano-cell hooks onto tumors and interfering RNA molecules (siRNAs) packaged with the nano-cell then hinder the function of DNA replication enzymes the tumors need to grow.

Early clinical research indicates that this novel approach effectively treats multiple cancers, without generating the toxic side effects often associated with chemotherapy.

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