Food & Environment / GMO Labelling

A GMO is a plant, animal or micro-organism whose genetic make-up has been artificially altered to increase yield, resistance to diseases or tolerance to herbicides.

There have been stringent laws on the production of GMOs since the 1990s to protect public health as well as the environment and ensure they can be safely transported around the EU.

Rules on GMOs have more recently been amended in response to public and government concerns. These rules lay down conditions that a company or research facility must satisfy before being allowed to develop, market or use a GMO or food derived from one. Those that are placed on the market are subject to rules on clear labelling and traceability conditions.