Biotech Updates

EFSA Outlines Procedures for Assessment of GM Animals

May 29, 2013

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) published guidelines to evaluate the potential adverse effects of genetically modified (GM) animals on the environment, as well as to human and animal health. The new guidance was released as requested by the European Commission (EC) in preparation for any future submissions of GM fish, insects, mammals, and birds for assessment.

Based on a directive by the EC, EFSA outlined six steps for the environmental risk assessment of GM animals: (1) problem formulation which includes hazard and exposure identification; (2) hazard characterization; (3) exposure characterization; (4) risk characterization; (5) risk management strategies; (6) overall risk evaluation.

For more details, read the guidelines at http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/press/news/130523.htm.