On Friday 4 July, the European Commission authorised the use of imported genetically modified soya in food and animal feed. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) concluded, following a scientific assessment, that this genetically modified soya was “as safe as its conventional equivalent”, noted the European Commission. This decision only concerns the import of genetically modified soya into the EU for use in food and animal feed, the European Commission said. Its cultivation remains banned in the EU. Authorised for ten years, this genetically modified soya and all its derived products will have to comply with EU rules on labelling and traceability. Member States were unable to reach a qualified majority, “neither in favour nor against”, leaving the European Commission to decide on authorisation. (FS)