EU Study Finds GMO Legislation Not Fit for Purpose

An EU study has examined New Genomic Techniques (NGTs), which can create genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and their potential effects on creating a sustainable food system in Europe. In a press release, Commissioner for Heath and Food Safety Stella Kyriakides said, “The study we publish today concludes that New Genomic Techniques can promote the sustainability of agricultural production, in line with the objectives of our Farm to Fork Strategy. With the safety of consumers and the environment as the guiding principle, now is the moment to have an open dialogue with citizens, Member States and the European Parliament to jointly decide the way forward for the use of these biotechnologies in the EU.” The announcement notes that the EU will begin an open consultation “to discuss the design of a new legal framework for these biotechnologies.” Among the findings of the study are that “NGT products have the potential to contribute to sustainable food systems” and that “the current 2001 GMO legislation is not fit for purpose for some NGTs and their products, and that it needs adaptation to scientific and technological progress.” The European Food Safety Authority also contributed a review of the agency’s and European member countries’ scientific opinions on the risks of GMO foods.