Import and processing of genetically modified RF3 Canola Quality (CQ) Brassica juncea
- The present application (EFSA/GMO/NL/2019/158) concerns the authorisation for import and processing for use in feed and food of genetically modified (GM) RF3 Canola Quality (CQ) Brassica juncea;
- RF3 CQ juncea was developed via conventional crossing of GM B. napus (oilseed rape) RF3 and B. juncea;
- RF3 CQ juncea expresses the barstar gene, which restores male fertility and is part of a pollination control system. It also expresses the bar gene, which confers tolerance to glufosinate-ammonium containing herbicides;
- juncea is used as a catch crop or green manure in the Netherlands, but the presence of B. juncea outside agricultural fields is rare. B. juncea is considered an adventive species;
- Under natural conditions, juncea can hybridise with B. napus, and possibly also with B. rapa and B. nigra;
- There are no indications that the introduced traits alter the fitness ofRF3 CQ juncea under natural conditions. Herbicide tolerance gives the plant advantage in places where glufosinate-ammonium herbicides are used for weed control, however, glufosinate ammonium herbicides are no longer used along transport routes;
- The molecular characterisation of RF3 CQ juncea meets the criteria of COGEM;
- COGEM is of the opinion that the chance of gene flow from spilled RF3 CQ juncea seeds to wild relatives is negligible, because of the temporary presence of GM B. juncea, and low hybridisation rates;
- COGEM considers the provided PMEM plan adequate for import and processing of RF3 CQ juncea;
- COGEM is of the opinion that import and processing of RF3 CQ juncea poses a negligible risk to the environment in the Netherlands;
- COGEM abstains from giving advice on the potential risks of incidental consumption since a food/feed assessment is carried out by other organisations.