In Germany, the handling of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is a complex issue. On the one hand, there are strict legal regulations, but on the other, GMOs still play a role in certain areas. Here is an overview of the current situation:
Cultivation of GMOs in Germany
In Germany, the commercial cultivation of genetically modified plants is in fact prohibited. One example is Monsanto's MON810 maize variety, the cultivation of which was stopped in 2012 after the German government issued a ban. This ban is based on the EU's so-called opt-out clause, which since 2015 has allowed member states to prohibit GMO cultivation even if the plants have been approved at EU level. Germany has consistently made use of this option.
Import of GMO foods
GMOs in animal feed: Although cultivation is prohibited in Germany, genetically modified soy and maize are imported in large quantities - especially as animal feed. Soy from the USA, Brazil or Argentina in particular is often genetically modified, as otherwise the demand could not be met.
Mandatory labeling: Foods containing GMOs must be labeled if the proportion is over 0.9%. The situation is different for animal products such as milk, meat or eggs: There is no labeling requirement here, even if the animals were fed with GMO feed. This means that consumers often come into contact with GMOs unknowingly.
GMO in research
There is a lot of research into GMOs in Germany, but mainly in the fields of basic research, medicine and biotechnology. Such work usually takes place under laboratory conditions and is subject to strict legal requirements. Field trials are rare and are strictly controlled.
Attitude of the population
The majority of the German population is critical of GMOs. Many people attach importance to strict regulation or completely reject genetic engineering in food. Products with the organic label are therefore particularly popular, as they exclude the use of genetic engineering.
GMO-free products and organic farming
The demand for food labeled as “GMO-free” is constantly increasing. Such products must prove that neither the ingredients nor the feed contain GMOs. The use of genetic engineering is prohibited in organic farming anyway, which makes it the preferred choice for many consumers.
Medicine and pharmaceutical industry
In medicine, on the other hand, the use of GMOs is indispensable. Genetically engineered drugs, such as insulin or biopharmaceuticals, play a key role - for example in vaccines, hormones or antibodies. Modern medicine would be inconceivable without these technologies.
Conclusion
Even though the direct cultivation of GMO plants is prohibited in Germany, GMOs are an integral part of everyday life. Imports of animal feed in particular ensure that GMOs are indirectly involved - often unnoticed by consumers. At the same time, the use of GMOs in medicine remains an indispensable component of modern technologies.
Compliance with Regulation (EC) No. 1830/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council of September 22, 2003, which regulates the traceability and labeling of genetically modified organisms and food and feed produced from them, is a matter of course for our company and a central component of our quality control.
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Disclaimer
For legal reasons, we would like to point out that some of the above statements require further research and studies in order to prove them scientifically. Therefore, not all statements can currently be recognized by conventional medicine.
Sources:
- https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/supporting/pub/en-829
- https://www.verbraucherzentrale.de/wissen/lebensmittel/lebensmittelproduktion/gentechnik-was-die-kennzeichnung-verraet-5558