Genetically Modified Organisms

On 2 July, the Commission authorised two genetically modified maize crops and renewed the authorisation for another genetically modified maize crop for food and animal feed.

The Commission's authorisation decisions only allow these genetically modified maize to be imported for use in food and animal feed, but not to be cultivated in the EU. These maize have gone through a comprehensive and stringent assessment procedure, which ensures a high level of protection of human and animal health, and of the environment. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) issued a favourable scientific assessment concluding that these genetically modified maize are as safe as their conventional counterparts.

The authorisations are valid for 10 years, and any product produced from these genetically modified crops will be subject to the EU's strict labelling and traceability rules. The Commission had a legal obligation to decide on these authorisations after Member States did not reach a qualified majority either in favour or against the authorisation at the Standing Committee and at the subsequent Appeal Committee.

Read more on Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) in the EU.