Biotech Updates

European Commission Authorizes Eight GM Crops for Food and Feed

January 27, 2021

The European Commission has authorized five genetically modified (GM) crops (3 maize, 2 soybeans) and renewed the authorization for three maize crops used for food and feed. The announcement was made on the European Union's Daily News which was published on January 22, 2021.

All of the eight GM crops have gone through a comprehensive and stringent authorization procedure, including a favorable scientific assessment conducted by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). The authorization decisions do not cover cultivation. Member States did not reach a qualified majority either in favor or against at the Standing Committee and at the subsequent Appeal Committee, therefore the European Commission has the legal duty to proceed with the authorizations which are valid for 10 years, and any product produced from these GMOs will be subject to the EU's strict labeling and traceability rules.

For more details, read the Daily News in the European Commission Press Corner.


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