EU allowed import of GM sugar beets

European Commission authorised a genetically modified sugar beet and renewed the authorisation for a genetically modified maize for use in food and animal feed, following the European Food Safety Authority’s scientific assessment concluding that they are as safe as their conventional counterparts.

These GM crops have undergone a comprehensive and stringent assessment procedure, which ensures a high level of protection of human and animal health, and of the environment. The Commission decisions only allow these genetically modified crops to be imported for use in food and animal feed, but not to be cultivated in the EU.

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

Tags: EU, GM