Brussels, 7 July 2023
Primary Food Processors (PFP) welcome the European Commission’s proposal for a new Regulation on plants produced through New Genomic Techniques (NGTs), describing it as an important first step towards a workable, science based and internationally coherent regulatory framework for the European Union.
The proposal, published on 5 July 2023, recognises the potential contribution of New Genomic Techniques to addressing some of the most significant agricultural and competitiveness challenges facing Europe. PFP supports the Commission’s acknowledgement that modern plant breeding technologies can play an important role in strengthening agricultural resilience and sustainability.
The organisation notes that Europe’s food and ingredient supply chains are increasingly affected by climate change, plant diseases, abiotic stress conditions and pressure on agricultural productivity. According to PFP, New Genomic Techniques can contribute to improving crop resilience, supporting higher yields and strengthening long term food security.
PFP believes that more resilient and productive crop varieties can improve farmer incomes, enhance supply chain stability and support the competitiveness of Europe’s primary food processing industries.
The organisation strongly supports the Commission’s proposal to exempt Category 1 NGT plants, considered conventional like products, from the standard European GMO legal framework. PFP considers this approach proportionate and science based, while also supporting continued transparency throughout the supply chain.
According to PFP, Category 1 plants should be treated as conventional like products because they could arise through conventional breeding methods or occur naturally. The organisation therefore supports their exemption from existing GMO legislation while maintaining appropriate transparency mechanisms.
PFP also highlights the competitive challenges facing European agriculture compared with countries that have already authorised and adopted New Genomic Techniques. The organisation warns that regulatory delays could place European farmers, processors and food businesses at a disadvantage compared with international competitors.
The association hopes that the proposed framework will help address this imbalance by creating a clear, predictable and innovation friendly regulatory environment that encourages investment and technological progress across the agricultural value chain.
PFP remains committed to constructive engagement with European institutions and stakeholders throughout the legislative process. The organisation will continue supporting the development of a practical and coherent framework that promotes innovation, sustainability and competitiveness while maintaining high standards of food safety and consumer confidence.
PFP brings together the European Association of Sugar Manufacturers (CEFS), the European Cocoa Association (ECA), the European Flour Milling Association (European Flour Millers), the European Vegetable Protein Association (EUVEPRO), the European Vegetable Oil and Proteinmeal Industry (FEDIOL), and the European Starch Industry Association (Starch Europe).
PFP members process approximately 220 million tonnes of raw materials and employ more than 120,000 people across the European Union.
