How is the safety of GM crops assessed?
Under EU legislation each proposed release of a GM product is subject to a detailed risk assessment which involves careful scrutiny by independent scientists. An evaluation is made of all the risk factors that may arise, including possible toxic or allergenic effects and the likely consequences of any gene transfer to other organisms. This takes account of relevant evidence from tests and trials as well as existing scientific knowledge. Ensuring safety is the Government’s clear over-riding objective on this issue. We take a precautionary approach and will only agree to a GM crop release if we are satisfied that it is safe. More information about how GM crops are regulated is available in the GM regulation section of Defra’s website www.defra.gov.uk/environment/gm/regulation/index.
