European Commission Authorized Seven Genetically Engineered Crops
The European Union approved the use of seven genetically engineered crops for food and feed import and processing.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Organic Food
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On September 23, 2026, the European Commission granted authorizations for seven genetically engineered crops. These approvals cover food and feed use for import and processing, though they do not permit cultivation within the European Union.
Why it matters
These authorizations follow a comprehensive procedure, including favorable scientific assessments from the European Food Safety Authority. The approval allows these products to enter the European market while maintaining strict adherence to existing union labeling and traceability regulations.
The commission authorized four new genetically engineered crops and renewed permissions for three others. Each of these seven approvals remains valid for a duration of 10 years.
The players
European Commission
This is the executive branch of the European Union responsible for proposing legislation and implementing decisions.
European Food Safety Authority
This agency provides independent scientific advice and communication on risks associated with the food chain.
Bayer
A multinational pharmaceutical and life sciences company that develops agricultural products, including genetically engineered seeds.
Corteva
This is a major agricultural chemical and seed company that operates globally in the genetically modified crop market.
BASF
A German multinational chemical company that produces a range of agricultural solutions and crop protection technologies.
The details
The seven crops underwent a rigorous scientific assessment process before receiving final approval. All imported and processed products remain subject to standard European Union labeling and traceability rules.
Timeline
Bayer Agriculture MON 94637 soyabean was approved on June 2, 2026.
Corteva and Bayer maize and soyabean authorizations were granted on June 29, 2026.
Final authorizations for Bayer and BASF maize and soyabean varieties occurred on September 23, 2026.
A USDA report regarding these authorizations was issued on October 2, 2026.
Culture Shift
These approvals reflect the ongoing integration of global agricultural biotechnology into the European market under existing European Union labelling and traceability rules. The move indicates a regulatory path forward for processed food imports that relies on independent scientific vetting.
Consumers in the European Union may begin to see products containing these ingredients on store shelves due to the new import permissions. These goods will be identifiable as genetically engineered under established union labeling and traceability requirements.
The takeaway
These authorizations mark the latest regulatory step in facilitating the import of genetically modified food and feed into the European Union. Shoppers should continue to look for mandatory labels to make informed decisions about the presence of these crops in their food products.
Further reading
Learn more about agricultural standards and requirements in our Organic Food section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Oils & Fats International.
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