The European Commission authorized three genetically modified crops (one soybean, one oilseed rape and one cotton) and renewed the authorization for one genetically modified cotton crop used for food and animal feed. All of these GMOs have gone through a comprehensive and stringent authorization procedure, including a favorable scientific assessment by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).
The authorization decisions do not cover cultivation but only the import of the above-mentioned GMO crops. Member states did not reach a qualified majority either in favor or against at the Standing Committee and the subsequent Appeal Committee. The European Commission has therefore the legal duty to proceed with the authorizations.
The authorizations are valid for ten years, and any product produced from these GMOs will be subject to the EU's strict labeling and traceability rules.
