Scientific Panel's Opinion on Bayer's GM Rice Application

The scientific panel on genetically modified organisms of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has released its opinion on the use of Bayer's herbicide-tolerant GM rice, LLRICE62, for food and feed in the European Union. The GM rice was developed by particle bombardment method to express the PAT protein, an enzyme responsible for tolerance to glufosinate herbicides.

Based on a rigorous scientific evaluation, the panel concluded that LLRICE62 is as safe as non GM rice varieties with respect to potential effects on human and animal health, as well as on the environment. The scientific assessment included molecular characterization of the DNA insert, monitoring of agronomic traits and evaluation of the transgenic protein and whole food/feeds in terms of toxicity, allergenicity and nutritional value. EFSA will submit the results of the assessment to EU member states.

The full report is available at http://www.efsa.europa.eu/EFSA/Scientific_Opinion/gmo_ej588_LLRICE62_opinion_en.pdf