This obviously applies to GMOs. Adequate procedures to facilitate traceability must be introduced. This includes the obligation for feed and food businesses to ensure that procedures are in place to withdraw feed and food from the market where it presents a risk to the consumer. It must be emphasised, however, that unambiguous tracing of feed and food is a complex issue and must take into account the specificity of different sectors and commodities. European Consumers have repeatedly stressed the link between consumer acceptance of biotechnology and rigorous and transparent control of GMOs.
Biotechnology is a new area.
Because of this I believe that it is fully justified that authorisations should be reviewed and time-limited and that genetically modified organisms are carefully monitored in the light of evolving science. Indeed, when important new scientific information on an authorised product becomes available, a new scientific assessment should be carried out. Another of the central elements in restoring consumer confidence is to make decisions concerning food safety which are based on science - that is a scientific assessment of potential risks. The Commission is determined to continue to use the best available science in developing its food safety measures. Under the current European legislation, genetically modified food can only be placed on the European market after it has been scientifically evaluated and when, according to the latest scientific knowledge, it is considered to be safe for human health and the environment.