EFSA approves new Pioneer GM maize

The Expert Group on Genetically Modified Organisms of the European Feed
Safety Authority (EFSA) has published a scientific opinion on the authorization
of 59122xNK603 maize (glyphosate and glufosinate tolerant genetically modified),
resistant to insects. The authority has issued a favourable opinion on 1
December for the marketing of GM maize. In delivering its scientific opinion,
the GMO Panel considered the new request, the additional information provided by
the applicant (Pioneer Hi-Bred International) and the scientific comments
submitted by Member States.

Only food and feed use
The scope
of the request was for use in food and feed, import and processing of GM maize
59122xNK603 and all derivatives, but is excluding any culture in the European
Union. The is of the opinion that “molecular characterization of the DNA of
59122xNK603 maize does not raise any security issue” and that sufficient
evidence for the stability of the genetic modification have been provided.

For EFSA, there were no indications of an increased risk of
establishment or survival of wild maize plants in case of accidental release
into the environment of the maize seeds during transport and food processing and
food uses.

No negative effect
In conclusion, the Committee
believes that the information available on the Pioneer maize variety from
scientific observations and questions raised by Member States shows that it is
“as safe as its non-GM counterpart, regarding its potential effects on human and
animal health or the environment.” Therefore, the GMO Panel of EFSA concludes
that the 59122xNK603 maize represents “no probable negative effect on human or
animal health or the environment as part of its use.”