GMOs
Genetically modified organisms (GMOs)
Updated on 04/08/2016
Keywords : GMOs, Plant health
Genetically modified organisms are defined as organisms or microorganisms that have undergone transformation of their genetic material through a process other than mating and/or natural recombination. They fall within the European Union regulatory framework and are evaluated by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). EFSA offers Member States the possibility of reviewing GMO dossiers to contribute to evaluation activities. ANSES provides support to the review process in this context.
Since the field of GMOs is strictly regulated and constantly changing, Member States have official laboratories that carry out surveillance and control activities including analyses, and scientific and technical monitoring. ANSES houses one of the three National Reference Laboratories (NRL) within its Plant Health Laboratory in Angers.
The article has been added to your library
GMO regulations
Published on 07/12/2012
Keywords : GMOs
GMOs are subject to EU-level regulation. In compliance with this framework, GMO safety for cultivation and/or for consumption by humans and animals is assessed before European marketing authorisation is granted.
Assessment is centralised on the EU level by the European Food Safety Authority which offers Member States the possibility to provide comments on the dossiers. In France, ANSES for the food aspects, and the High Council of Biotechnology for the environmental aspects, are both independent public bodies which participate in the assessment of GMO dossiers. When the assessment is complete, a decision is taken for each GMO by the European Commission after a vote by its 27 Member States.
The article has been added to your library