EU Assessment Confirms Safety of Genetically Modified Maize DP915635 in Food and Feed

In a recent development, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has conducted an evaluation of genetically modified maize DP915635 to assess its safety for use in food and feed. The assessment was carried out in response to a request from the European Commission. The findings of the evaluation provide important insights into the safety of this genetically modified organism (GMO) and its comparability to conventional maize varieties.

On January 17, 2024, the EFSA released a scientific opinion on the safety of genetically modified maize DP915635. This particular variety of maize was genetically engineered to confer tolerance to glufosinate herbicide and resistance to corn rootworm pests. The evaluation conducted by the GMO expert panel concluded that, in terms of potential impacts on human and animal health as well as the environment, genetically modified maize DP915635 is as safe as its conventional counterpart and tested non-GM maize varieties.

The assessment included a thorough examination of the molecular characterization data and bioinformatic analyses, which did not reveal any issues requiring further food and feed safety assessment. The agronomic, phenotypic, and compositional characteristics of maize DP915635 were also compared to its conventional counterpart, and no significant differences were identified except for the levels of crude protein in forage, which were found to be within acceptable ranges without raising nutritional and safety concerns.

Importantly, the GMO panel found no evidence suggesting any safety concerns related to the toxicity and allergenicity of the proteins expressed in maize DP915635, namely IPD079Ea, PAT, and PMI proteins. Furthermore, the genetic modification was determined to have no overall impact on the safety of maize DP915635. Therefore, the consumption of food and feed derived from this genetically modified maize does not pose any nutritional concerns for humans and animals.

The evaluation also addressed the potential environmental impact of maize DP915635. In the case of accidental release of viable grains into the environment, it was concluded that this would not raise any environmental safety concerns. The post-market environmental monitoring plan and reporting intervals were deemed appropriate and aligned with the intended uses of maize DP915635.

Based on the assessment conducted by the EFSA, genetically modified maize DP915635 has been deemed safe for use in food and feed, with its safety profile comparable to that of its conventional counterpart and tested non-GM maize varieties. These findings provide important scientific evidence regarding the safety of genetically modified crops and contribute to the ongoing discussions surrounding GMOs in the European Union.