Biotech Updates

EFSA's Opinion on Pioneer's GM Corn

April 17, 2009

The scientific panel on genetically modified organisms of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has released its opinion on the use of Pioneer's insect resistant and herbicide tolerant corn for feed and food use in the European Union. EFSA concluded that following its intended use, the GM corn is as safe as its non-GM counterparts 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.

The GM maize was produced by crosses between maize inbred lines containing 59122, 1507 and NK603 events to combine resistance to certain coleopteran and lepidopteran species, and to confer tolerance to glyphosate and glufosinate ammonium herbicides. EFSA will submit the results of the assessment to EU member states.

The summary paper is available for download at http://www.efsa.europa.eu/cs/BlobServer/Scientific_Opinion/gmo_op_ej1050_maize59122x1507xNK603_
summary_en.pdf?ssbinary=true