As announced in March, the Commission is working on a review of its approval system for genetically modified (GM) crops. With most Europeans showing no appetite for GM produce in food, EU politicians have approved just two varieties for growing in 12 years, compared to more than 150 worldwide. Following an in-depth evaluation of GMO policy, proposals due to be adopted on 13 July, will give the European Commission greater freedom to approve new GM varieties for cultivation, in return for letting EU governments decide whether or not to grow them. According to the press release shows that EU policy is to be based on scientific assessment of health risks and sustainable innovation, and challenging the "instinctive fear and suspicion (that had) taken hold among European consumers due to scaremongering and a reluctance of industry to explain the science behind their products" (J. Dalli). This "regulatory risk" approach to EU law is consistent with President Barroso's new political guidelines. Good background on Euractiv dossier.
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