May 28, 2012
EU new report abolishes changes on organic rules
Toughening the 0.9% threshold for traces of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in organic products has been ruled out by the European Commission, according to a new report on the implementation of EU organic rules since 2009, which claims current laws provide "sufficient guarantees" for farmers.
Published by the European Commission on May 11, the 11-page report says it is too early for the EU executive to table revisions given the limited experience of the impact of organic rules since 2009. But the report aims to trigger a debate between all legislators and stakeholders in the sector, on the basis of which the Commission "may come forward with proposals at a later stage". The current 0.9% threshold for traces of GMOs is one of the more contentious issues surrounding organic production, with certification schemes in five member states setting a tougher limit for producers.
The Commission recognises the potential loss of income for organic producers as a result of GMO contamination, but claims that member state supervision of the current control system - where countries are free to set co-existence rules - has posed "no major problems". Meanwhile, the Commission notes that differing interpretations of the rules in some member states require a greater focus on harmonisation across the EU. Under EU rules, member states will be required to draw up a publicly available list of operators from January 1 next year, while the list of recognised control bodies for checking organic producers will be applicable from July 1 this year.
The EU executive also pledges to push for further agreements with third countries, whose organic systems may be deemed as "equivalent".