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Genetically Modified Food and Feed

Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are organisms, such as plants and animals, whose genetic characteristics are being modified artificially in order to give them a new property. Food and feed which contain or consist of such GMOs, or are produced from GMOs, are called genetically modified (GM) food or feed.

In order to ensure that the development of modern biotechnology, and more specifically of GMOs, takes place in complete safety, the European Union has established a legal framework regulating genetically modified (GM) food and feed in the EU. This framework pursues the global objective of ensuring a high level of protection of human life and health and welfare, environment and consumer interests, whilst ensuring that the internal market works effectively.

Evaluation of GMO policy in the EU

More recent developments

EFSA opinions on applications under the Regulation on GM food and feed

Maize MON89034xNK603

This opinion is related to an application for the placing on the market of food, feed and other products containing or consisting of genetically modified MON89034xNK603 (e.g. maize grains) or food and feed produced from this maize (e.g. flour, oil).

EFSA opinion
Public comments (deadline: 1-11-2009)

Maize Bt11xGA21

This opinion is related to an application for the placing on the market of food, feed and other products containing or consisting of genetically modified Bt11xGA21 (e.g. maize grains) or food and feed produced from this maize (e.g. flour, oil).

EFSA opinion
Public comments (deadline: 23-10-2009)

Oilseed rape Ms8, Rf3, Ms8xRf3 - renewal of the authorisation

This opinion is related to an application for renewal of the authorisation for the placing on the market of food and feed produced from this oilseed rape (e.g. oil).