May 7, 2012
EU member states unsuccessful against GMO marketing
On May 2, representatives of EU member states failed for several times to take a position for or against a proposal by the European Commission in authorising the genetically modified organism''s (GMO) marketing in the EU.
The product in question is the genetically modified soy product MON 87701 x LIB 89788 by Monsanto Europe SA. EU27 experts, who gathered within the Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health (SCoFCAH) of the EU, did not reach the qualified majority required for the Commission proposal to be either approved or rejected. The proposal concerns food and feed uses and not cultivation.
Consequently, it will be up to the GM appeals committee to take a stance. This committee, established by EC Regulation No 182/2011 (establishing the general rules and principles on arrangements for control by member states of implementation by the Commission) will issue an opinion by qualified majority. Seeking a "balanced solution", the Commission is expected, in so far as possible, to avoid running counter to a predominant position that could arise from the appeals committee, the regulation states.
The soy product contains genes for insect resistance and herbicide (glyphosate) tolerance through conventional crossing of two soy vents.
The Commission had based its proposal on a favourable scientific opinion from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), which had concluded after assessing the potential risks of the GMO that the GM soy product was as safe for both human and animal health, and for the environment, as a conventional soy product. The EFSA scientific opinion had duly taken into account all questions raised by member states.