Introduction to the GM and non-GM supply chain co-existence and traceability
2013
Davison, John
This chapter describes the European framework which induced coexistence and traceability needs in the EU. After having rapidly reviewed the context of GMO development, production and trade, this chapter outlines the socio-economic issues and consumers’ concerns raised by the introduction of GM plants into the agricultural system. It then summarizes increasing demands of consumers for safe and healthy produce, generally represented by “quality signs”.After summarizing the European regulatory framework, it develops the actions undertaken by the European Commission and EU member states for satisfying the often conflicting, freedom of cultivation of the farmers and freedom of choice for European consumers. The 2 main results are the coexistence of supply chains’ with an important traceability framework. The actions encompass, in particular, an enforcement network for traceability, with the duties for companies to provide detection methods of GMOs and to financially participate to the incurred costs of methods validation, research projects on traceability and coexistence issues. Some coexistence rules in place were either enacted by EU –MS, developed by the farmers and their organizations, or both.Finally, the commercialization of GMOs shall be accompanied in the EU by the post-market monitoring of environment and human health whose implementation is far from easy.This European frame of coexistence and traceability targets a peaceful development of GMO despite a very controversial situation, and should ensure that next generations of GMO, designed for e.g. pharmacy and industry, will not enter the food and feed chains.
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