Following a request from Pioneer Hi-Bred International within the framework of Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 on genetically modified food and feed (EC, 2003) for food and feed uses, import and processing, the Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the GMO maize 59122xNK603 in order to examine the potential risks that this maize could have on the health and the environment.
The Expert Group on Genetically Modified Organisms of the European Feed Safety Authority (EFSA) published a scientific opinion on the authorization of 59122xNK603 maize (glyphosate and glufosinate tolerant genetically modified), resistant to insects. After several researches, EFSA issued a favourable opinion on 1 December for the marketing of GM maize. In delivering its scientific opinion, the GMO Panel considered the new request, the additional information provided by the applicant (Pioneer Hi-Bred International) and the scientific comments submitted by the Member States.
The scope of request was for food and feed uses, import and processing of genetically modified maize 59122 x NK603 and all derived produ
cts, but excluding cultivation in the EU.
The scientific assessment included molecular characterization of the inserted DNA and expression of the new proteins. A comparative analysis of agronomic traits and composition was undertaken and the safety of the newly expressed proteins and the whole food/feed was evaluated with respect to potential toxicity, allergenicity and nutritional quality. An assessment of environmental impacts and the post-market environmental monitoring plan were also undertaken.
Based on the results of comparative analysis and on the assessment of data available the GMO Panel of EFSA concluded that the information available on the Pioneer maize variety from scientific observations and questions raised by Member States shows that it is “as safe as its non genetically modified counterpart with respect to potential effects on human and animal health or the environment”. Therefore the GMO Panel concludes that “59122 x NK603 is unlikely to have any adverse effect on human or animal health or on the environment in the context of its intended uses”.
