EU Allows GMO Sweet Corn in Cans

BRUSSELS - May 20/04 - SNS -- The European Union (EU) will allow imports of canned sweet corn produced from genetically modified (GM) varieties as long as the cans adhere to strict labelling guidelines.

Covering sweet corn from the Bt11 line created by Syngenta, the approval will be in effect for 10 years. Any imports of the canned vegetable will have to show clearly on the labelling that the corn has been harvested from a genetically modified plant.

Grain from the GM maize line Bt11 has been authorized for import into Europe since 1998 and is widely used in the EU in feed and in derived food products, e.g. maize oil, maize flour, sugar and syrup, snack foods, baked foods, fried foods, confectionary and soft drinks. The authorization today covers the specific use for imports of canned or fresh sweet corn (maize).

David Byrne, Commissioner for Health and Consumer Protection, said: "GM sweet corn has been subject to the most rigorous pre-marketing assessment in the world. It has been scientifically assessed as being as safe as any conventional maize.

"Food safety is therefore not an issue, it is a question of consumer choice. The new EU rules on GMOs require clear labelling and traceability. Labelling provides consumers with the information they need to make up their own mind. They are therefore free to choose what they want to buy. The Commission is acting responsibly based on stringent and clear legislation."

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