Biotech Updates

EFSA Releases Scientific Opinion on Post Market Environmental Monitoring of GMPs

August 5, 2011

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has released a scientific opinion on the Guidance on the post-marketing environmental monitoring (PMEM) of genetically modified plants (GMPs). A holistic and integrative approach for monitoring GMPs in the EU is proposed within a general environmental protection monitoring framework. This scientific opinion repeals the former 2006 scientific opinion of the EFSA GMO Panel on PMEM of GMPs.

The document:

  • explains the scientific rationale for PMEM, including the concept of developing management and monitoring strategies based on the overall conclusions and assumptions of the Environmental Risk Assessment;
  • provides examples and guidance to applicants on how to develop and implement their plans for Case-Specific Monitoring (CSM), taking into account the case-by-case character of CSM; and
  • provides guidance to applicants on the strategy, methodology and reporting of General Surveillance (GS).

Download http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/doc/2316.pdf for the full details.