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Brussels, 6 february 1997
Genetically modified maize : threat to consumer confidence
Following the recent decision of the European Commission to authorize the placing on the market of the Ciba-Geigy genetically modified maize, EURO COOP calls for a more responsible and controlled use of biotechnology in food production.
EURO COOP is highly critical of this Commission decision of the form and substance.
The real benefit of this genetically modified maize has not been clearly demonstrated. In EURO COOP's view, it is primarily the manufacturers responsability to prove this benefit.
EURO COOP considers that the approval system of the genetically modified maize should have been much more strict, and that the precautionary principle should have been a key element in the judgment of safety risk, no matter how small that risk may have been. We believe that there is a need to examine any possible long-term safety effects before approval. This is particularly important for antibiotic resistance marker where we do not know the long-term effects of using them.
EURO COOP is concerned about the possible development of antibiotic resistance in animals and human beings. We therefore contest the use of the antibiotic marker gene (especially the ampicillin resistance marker in GM maize), and plead for its removal, if used, before the product goes on the market.
The question of pesticide resistance through GMO's should be carefully monitored and evaluated. Although there could be a benefit to the environment in the short-term through the use of fewer and more environmentally-friendly pesticides, they could harm the environment in the long-term because of pesticide resistance and the increased use of pesticides.
This decision does not respect the consumers right to know about the food they eat and to make an informed choice. EURO COOP calls for adequate and complete information on genetically modified maize and its presence in foodstuffs, either through labelling, or through leaflets, campaigns, conferences, etc.... Our opinion, the authorisation for producers to label "may contain GMOs" does not, meet this requirement, and does not allow for the possibility of traceability.
Finally, EURO COOP calls for the segregation of genetically modified maize raw materials as well as their derivatives from traditional maize and strongly criticises the firms concerned which have refused to do so. Without such segregation it will not be possible to provide consumers with full information and ensure traceability.
To conclude, facing the lack of commitment to segregation and traceability, consumer cooperatives across the EU are seeking reassurances from their suppliers that the provision of non-genetically modified maize can be guaranteed.
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