Renewal of the authorisation for import of feed of genetically modified NK603xMON810 maize
- The present application (EFSA/GMO/RX/007) concerns the renewal of the authorisation for import and processing for use in feed and food of genetically modified NK603xMON810 maize;
- Maize NK603xMON810 has been authorised for import and processing in 2007;
- COGEM has previously advised positively on the import and processing (2004), and on the cultivation (2007) of NK603xMON810;
- Maize NK603xMON810 produces the CP4 EPSPS and CP4 EPSPS L214P proteins conferring tolerance to glyphosate containing herbicides, and the cry1Ab gene conferring resistance to certain lepidopteran insects;
- In the Netherlands, feral maize populations have never been observed and the appearance of volunteers is rare;
- In the Netherlands, wild relatives of maize have never been observed and hybridisation of maize with other species is therefore not possible;
- The molecular characterisation and updated bioinformatic analyses of NK603xMON810 maize meet the criteria of COGEM;
- There are no indications that the introduced traits alter the fitness of NK603xMON810 maize;
- The updated bioinformatic analyses, literature review and monitoring reports do not give any indication of a potential environmental risk;
- COGEM is of the opinion that import and processing of NK603xMON810 maize poses a negligible risk to the environment in the Netherlands;
- COGEM abstains from giving advice on the potential risks of incidental consumption since a food/feed assessment is carried out by other organisations.