Import and processing of GM maize line MON89034x1507xMON88017x59122
The present application (file EFSA/GMO/CZ/2008/62) concerns import and processing for use in feed and food of the genetically modified maize line MON89034x1507xMON88017x59122. Cultivation is not part of this application.
Maize line MON89034x1507xMON88017x59122 expresses the cry1A.105, cry2Ab2, cry3Bb1, cry34Ab1, cry35Ab1, cry1F, cp4 epsps and pat genes. As a result the maize line is resistant to certain lepidopteran and coleopteran insects. In addition, the maize line is tolerant to glyphosate and glufosinate-ammonium containing herbicides.
Maize line MON89034x1507xMON88017x59122 was produced by crossing the four genetically modified parental maize lines. Previously, COGEM issued positive advices on import and processing of MON89034 and MON88017. In addition, COGEM issued positive advices on import and processing and on cultivation of 1507, 59122 and 1507×59122.
During its long domestication process, maize has lost its ability to survive in the wild. In the Netherlands, the appearance of maize volunteers is rare and establishment of volunteers in the wild has never been reported. There are no reasons to assume that the introduced traits will increase the potential of maize to establish feral populations. The introduced genes cannot spread to closely related species since wild relatives of maize are not present in Europe.
In view of the above, COGEM is of the opinion that incidental spillage of MON89034x1507xMON88017x59122 poses negligible risks to the environment. Therefore, COGEM considers the risks associated with import and processing of maize line MON89034x1507xMON88017x 59122 negligible.