European body rejects study on adverse impact of GM maize

Previous study concluded that toxic effects of GM maize caused tumours in rats which could also develop into cancer

Adding to the debate on toxic effects of GM crops, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) in a recent report has concluded that a recent paper raising concerns about the potential toxicity of genetically modified (GM) maize NK603 and of a herbicide containing glyphosate is of insufficient scientific quality to be considered as valid for risk assessment.

European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is the keystone of European Union (EU) risk assessment regarding food and feed safety. It works in close collaboration with national authorities and in open consultation with stakeholders. In a statement released last week, EFSA said that its initial review found that the design, reporting and analysis of the study, as outlined in the paper, are inadequate.

To enable the fullest understanding of the study the Authority has invited authors Séralini et al to share key additional information. Recently, a huge controversy broke out globally, following a study done by eminent French scientist Gilles-Eric Séralini and his research team at France’s University of the Caen. The study concluded that the toxic effects of GM maize caused tumors in rats which could also develop into cancer.

The study compelled all regulatory authorities in countries where GM crops are used in food items to sit up and take notice of the findings. EFSA has been the first to reject the contents of the study. It further said that the numerous issues relating to the design and methodology of the study as described in the paper mean that no conclusions can be made about the occurrence of tumors in the rats tested.

"Therefore, based on the information published by the authors, EFSA does not see a need to re-examine its previous safety evaluation of maize NK603 nor to consider these findings in the ongoing assessment of glyphosate,” an official statement said.

Per Bergman, who led EFSA’s work, said: “Some may be surprised that EFSA’s statement focuses on the methodology of this study rather than its outcomes; however, this goes to the very heart of the matter. When conducting a study it is crucial to ensure a proper framework is in place. Having clear objectives and the correct design and methodology create a solid base from which accurate data and valid conclusions can follow. Without these elements a study is unlikely to be reliable and valid.”