Genetically modified food
The term genetically modified refers to a genetically modified organism, such as a plant or a bacterium, the genotype of which has been modified by the methods of gene technology (GMO = genetically modified organism). Genetically modified foods are produced from or contain genetically modified ingredients.
Genetically modified food and feed are governed by:
- Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 22 September 2003 on genetically modified food and feed
- Regulation (EC) No 1830/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 22 September 2003 concerning the traceability and labelling of genetically modified organisms and the traceability of food and feed products produced from genetically modified organisms and amending Directive 2001/18/EC
Authorisation procedure for genetically modified food
Pursuant to Article 4 of Regulation 1829/2004, genetically modified organisms or foods may not be placed on the market unless they are covered by an authorisation. The safety of the organism or the food is assessed before the authorisation is granted.
Indication of genetic modification in labelling
Pursuant to Regulation 1829/2003, the consumer must be informed about any genetically modified species or ingredients produced from such species, which are used in the production of the food. The words " genetically modified" or e.g. " produced from genetically modified soy" shall appear in the list of ingredients immediately following the genetically modified ingredient or the ingredients produced from genetically modified species.