EFSA Unable to Conclude on Full-Scope Safety of Genetically Modified Oilseed Rape LBFLFK

The European Food Safety Authority’s GMO Panel has published its scientific opinion on oilseed rape LBFLFK, a genetically modified variety engineered to alter its fatty acid profile and provide tolerance to imidazolinone herbicides. The application sought authorization for import, processing and use in food and feed within the EU.

The panel reported that oilseed rape LBFLFK contains two independent genetic inserts, each consisting of a single T-DNA copy encoding multiple expression cassettes. Following its evaluation, the panel concluded that it cannot establish the safety of the newly expressed elongases and desaturases, nor determine the nutritional adequacy of the oil or full-fat seeds for terrestrial livestock, companion animals or aquaculture species.

However, the panel determined that refined, bleached and deodorized oil from this crop is safe for human consumption under the conditions proposed by the applicant, provided it is not used in high-temperature applications, which could pose safety concerns. The panel also recommended post-market monitoring to verify actual consumption patterns.

No environmental risks were identified for terrestrial non-target organisms, persistence, invasiveness or gene transfer within this environment. The panel was nonetheless unable to conclude on the product’s safety for aquatic ecosystems and therefore stated that it cannot confirm the adequacy of the applicant’s post-market environmental monitoring plan.