European Commission Had Authorized A Genetically Modified Soy
The European Commission announced on Monday that it had authorized a genetically modified type of soy for use in the food industry and also as animal feed.
All genetically modified crops (GMOs) must be approved by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). This also happened in the case of modified soybeans called MON 87708 x MON 89788 x A5547-127 soybeans.
This type of crop has undergone a comprehensive EU authorization procedure, including a favorable scientific assessment by EFSA.
The Commission noted that the authorization decision for this crop did not apply to its cultivation.
All EU Member States had the right to express their views in the Standing Committee on Crops, Animals, Food and Feed (PAFF) of the European Commission and subsequently in the Appeals Committee.
In the light of the outcome of this process, the European Commission has a legal obligation to continue to authorize that crop. The permit is valid for a period of ten years and all products made from this genetically modified soy will be subject to strict EU labeling and traceability rules.