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29.11.2024 - Foods

Seed Monitoring 2024: Low GMO Levels Detected in Corn

The official laboratories of the federal states examined a total of 783 seed samples from 13 cultivated plants for genetically modified organisms (GMO) during the analysis year 2024 (01.10.2023 – 30.09.2024). Small amounts of GMOs were detected in four maize samples. This was announced by the Federal/State Working Group on Genetic Engineering (LAG).

Focus on maize and rapeseed
Maize and rapeseed accounted for the majority of the samples examined, with 60% and 27% respectively. Other crops tested included soybeans (6%), as well as sugar beets, flax, and zucchini. Targeted inspections were carried out on flax and sweetcorn due to previous detections of unauthorized GMOs.

Strict control procedures
The monitoring of seeds in Germany is the responsibility of the federal states. The purpose of the coordinated sampling and analyses is to withdraw seeds with GMO content from the market in a timely manner, before they are sown. At least 10% of the approved seed batches are examined, using standardized methods according to the Genetic Engineering Act (§28b).

GMOs in Germany: Cultivation still prohibited
In the EU, only the genetically modified maize variety MON810 is currently approved, but it has been subject to a national cultivation ban in Germany since 2009. Additionally, Germany has taken advantage of the so-called "opt-out" rule to continue to exclude GMO cultivation in the future.

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Source: www.bvl.bund.de