Over the past ten years, no consensus could be reached on this issue in European politics, but whether the entire European Parliament will approve it this time remains unclear. Not only the EU countries, but also all parliamentary groups in Strasbourg are deeply divided on the matter.
The approval of genetically modified food does not apply to the organic food sector, but there will be no obligation to label whether genetically modified material has been used in the food. A large portion of these products will soon receive the same treatment as regular crops, without additional labels in supermarkets.
Genetically modified crops that have been made resistant to agricultural pesticides will still have to be assessed for risks before they may be approved in the future. Agricultural organizations have reacted positively to the agreement reached now, but environmental and health organizations call it a slippery slope.
The techniques to be allowed now alter a small part of the genetic material without adding foreign DNA. The new system distinguishes between two groups. The first group consists of crops that could also occur naturally or through existing breeding methods. A second group will continue to be subject to stricter regulations.
Agricultural organizations respond positively. They describe the agreements as a practical way to develop crops that are more resistant to heat, drought, and pests. According to them, this helps farmers who face stricter rules for the use of chemical pesticides.