BRUSSELS
The introduction of insect-resistant maize, known as Pioneer 1507 into the EU marketplace went to the vote Tuesday and resulted in the Commission paving the way for its introduction.
A disagreement among EU ministers over the fate of the newly genetically modified maize has resulted in the decision being passed over to the European Commission for voting yesterday.
Among the 28 members of the EU, 19 states voted against the insect-resistant maize which was developed jointly by DuPont and Dow Chemical, while five supported it and four abstained. Among the states that abstained was Germany, one of the most influential members. This along with the EU's weighted voting system did not allow for opposition parties to block the maize plant from entering the EU marketplace.
Genetically modified foods (GM foods) are produced from organisms that have had specific changes introduced into their DNA such as resistance to pathogens and herbicides or better nutrient profiles by genetic engineering, However, those against GM foods argue against its introduction for safety issues and environmental concerns.
englishnews@aa.com.tr
