The EU authorizes the consumption of a new transgenic maize, but prohibits its cultivation

It maintains that it enjoys an optimal level of protection for human and animal health, and the environment

The European Commission (EC) announced on Wednesday the authorization to market a new genetically modified corn for the production of food and feed for human and animal consumption, respectively.

This genetically modified corn was subjected to an exhaustive authorization procedure , which was used to guarantee an optimal level of protection for human, animal and environmental health , according to the Community Executive in a statement. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) issued a favorable scientific assessment, concluding that the nutritional composition of this genetically modified organism (GMO) is as safe as that of the rest of its conventional counterparts.

Although this decision will authorize the commercialization of corn, it will not allow its cultivation within the European Union (EU). After the votes in the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed (SCOPAFF) and the subsequent appeal committee, the Member States did not reach a qualified majority for or against this authorization and, therefore, it will require further debate.

The authorization is valid for ten years and any product obtained from this GMO will be subject to strict EU regulations on labeling and traceability, reports GLM.