The Commission authorises two genetically modified crops

Today, the Commission authorised two genetically modified crops (1 maize and 1 soybean) for food and animal feed. The Commission’s authorisation decision does not allow for their cultivation in the EU, only for their use as food and animal feed. These GMOs have gone through a comprehensive and stringent authorisation procedure, which ensures a high level of protection of human and animal health, and of the environment. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) issued a favourable scientific assessment concluding that these GMOs are as safe as their conventional counterparts. Member States did not reach a qualified majority either in favour or against the authorisations at the Standing Committee and at the subsequent Appeal Committee. The authorisations are valid for 10 years, and any product produced from these GMOs will be subject to the EU’s strict labelling and traceability rules. For more information on GMOs in the EU see here.