3 GMO corn varieties authorized for feed use in Europe

The European Commission (EC) has carried out a legal obligation, and given the green light for three varieties of genetically modified (GM) corn. These can now be used in livestock feeds and human foods — under certain conditions.

The final decision fell to the EC as European Union (EU) member states have been unable to decide either for or against the authorization by the required majority within a reasonable time frame.

According to the EC, the three products have undergone rigorous assessment for a wide range of aspects of safety by the expert panel of the European Food Safety Authority. This scrutiny aims to ensure a high level of safety in terms of the environment, as well as human and animal health.

In its clarification, the EC stresses that the three GM corn varieties may be imported into the EU, and used in animal feed and human food. The EU’s strict labeling and traceability rules will have to be followed through the food chain.

Authorization for their use — valid for a period for 10 years — specifically excludes the cultivation of these varieties in the trading bloc.

The newly authorized varieties are not identified in the EC documents.

GM basics

Throughout history, human beings have created new varieties of crops and animals by selecting individuals with desirable characteristics, and combining them.

More recently, gene technology has been developed to modify the genetic composition of living cells and organisms, according to the EC. Such modification is carried out to confer a new property, such as improved resistance to a disease, drought or pests; increase yield; or modify its composition.

Organisms produced in this way are described as ″genetically modified organisms″ (GMOs). Food or feed that contain GMOs is called ″genetically modified (GM) food or feed.″