European Food Safety Authority Releases Assessment Results for Two Genetically Modified Corn Varieties and Two Genetically Modified Strains

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has published a safety assessment of two genetically modified (GM) maize varieties and two GM strains used in food production. These assessments, published on August 1, 5 and 7, 2024, address the safety of GM maize varieties MON95275 and DP910521 for food and feed use, as well as the safety of food enzymes produced by GM strains of Bacillus subtilis and GM strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

EFSA's GMO panel concluded that the two GM maize varieties do not raise any food or feed safety concerns or have an impact on nutritional status. In addition, they confirmed that the potential risks to human and animal health and the environment of these GM varieties are comparable to those of conventional varieties.

The food enzyme β-galactosidase produced by Bacillus subtilis GM is mainly used in the production of low-lactose dairy products and fermented dairy products. The food enzyme glucan 1, 4-α-maltose hydrolase produced by GM saccharomyces cerevisiae strains is mainly used in the production of bakery products. EFSA's Food Enzymes Expert Group has evaluated the safety of these enzymes and concluded that they do not raise any safety concerns under the prescribed conditions of use.

These findings highlight EFSA's ongoing commitment to assessing the safety of GM food products and ensuring that these products meet rigorous scientific standards.