EFSA Reaffirms Safety of Bayer’s GM Soybean MON 87769 for Continued Use in EU

The Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA GMO Panel) has released the results of the scientific risk assessment for the renewal application for the stearidonic acid-producing genetically modified (GM) soybean MON 87769. The application, submitted by Bayer CropScience, covers the continued authorization of soybean MON 87769 for food and feed uses within the European Union, excluding cultivation.

The EFSA GMO Panel evaluated the post-market environmental monitoring reports, post-market monitoring reports, updated bioinformatics analyses, relevant scientific publications, additional studies provided by the applicant, and updated bioinformatics analyses. The GMO Panel assessed these data for possible new hazards, modified exposure, or new scientific uncertainties identified during the authorization period and not previously assessed in the context of the original application.

The Panel concluded that the evidence presented in the renewal dossier GMFF-2023-21253 shows no new risks associated with soybean MON 87769. Assuming the DNA sequence remains identical to the originally assessed event, the Panel found no new hazards, modified exposure, or scientific uncertainties that would alter the conclusions of the original risk assessment.

For more information, read the Scientific Opinion in the EFSA Journal.