The Commission authorises eight genetically modified crops for use as food and feed
On 22 January 2021, the Commission has authorised five genetically modified crops (3 maize and 2 soybeans) and renewed the authorisation for three maize crops used for food and feed.
All of these GMOs have gone through a comprehensive and stringent authorisation procedure, including a favourable scientific assessment by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). The authorisation decisions do not cover cultivation. Member States did not reach a qualified majority either in favour or against at the Standing Committee and at the subsequent Appeal Committee. The European Commission has therefore the legal duty to proceed with the authorisations. The authorisations are valid for 10 years, and any product produced from these GMOs will be subject to the EU's strict labelling and traceability rules.